Text to 9-1-1 is available in the Phoenix metro area (Maricopa Region 9-1-1). It is the ability to send a text message to 9-1-1. Texting during an emergency could be helpful if you are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, or if a voice call to 9-1-1 might otherwise be dangerous or impossible. But if you are able to make a voice call to 9-1-1, you should always make a voice call to 9-1-1.
Voice calls to 9-1-1 are typically the most efficient way to reach emergency help. For example, voice calls allow the 9-1-1 operator to more quickly ask questions and obtain information from the caller, while two-way communication by text can take more time and is subject to limits on the length of text messages. In addition, when you make a voice call to 9-1-1, the call taker will typically receive your phone number and the approximate location of your phone automatically.
When texting to 9-1-1 the operator will not receive automatic location information. if you send a text message to 9-1-1, it is important to give the 9-1-1 operator an accurate address or location as quickly as possible.
Currently, text must be in English; there no language interpretation for text available. When texting 9-1-1, use plain English and no texting abbreviations or emojis.
Remember, you can make a voice call to 9-1-1 using a wireless phone that does not have a service plan, but you cannot send a text message to 9-1-1 without a service contract that includes texting.
