A new service allows you to send a text message rather than call 911 in an emergency, including when a voice call may not be safe, Gov. Dannel Malloy announced on Thursday.
Here’s the news release (condensed and slightly edited) that accompanied the announcement:
The State of Connecticut has launched a new Text-to-911 capability as part of the state’s new Next Generation 9-1-1 Emergency Telecommunications System.
Text-to-911 provides residents with the ability to send a text message to 9-1-1 from a handheld device in emergency situations when it is either unsafe or they are unable to place a voice call. The system, which is available statewide, is now in effect.
“The safety and security of our residents is a top priority and this is an important innovation that will indubitably save lives,” Malloy said. “There are emergency situations where a voice call to 9-1-1 is neither possible nor safe. This technology provides increased protection for residents, including victims of domestic violence and those who are deaf or hard of hearing, by increasing access to emergency responders in such scenarios.”
Part of the public information campaign on the new Text-911 feature.
Officials are cautioning residents that voice calls to 9-1-1 remain the best and fastest way to contact emergency services whenever it is feasible to do so. Text-to-911 is only intended to be used when absolutely necessary or needed, which is why the new system’s theme is: Call if you can, text if you can’t.
Text-to-911 is specifically intended for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability. It is also intended to be used when people are in certain situations that would be unsafe or impractical to place an audible voice call, such as during a home invasion, an act of domestic violence, or active mass shooting, and also during medical emergencies that render a person incapable of speech.
Connecticut is one of only several states in the nation to roll out the Text-to-911 feature statewide.
“The Text-to-911 feature was added to enhance the public’s safety and wellbeing and it could save lives, especially for those with hearing and speech impairments and anyone in a situation where silence is essential to their safety when summoning help,” said Commissioner Dora Schriro of the Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection (DESPP).
“Soon, public service announcements will air on TV and radio showing you how to use this feature, but for additional information any time, go to www.Text911CT.org.”
How to Text It
- To use Text-to-911, enter the numbers “911” in the “to” or “recipient” field on a mobile phone or other handheld device. Text a brief message that includes the location of the emergency and what services are needed (police, fire, ambulance). After that, answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call center.
Connecticut’s 9-1-1 Emergency Telecommunications System is maintained and operated by DESPP’s Division of Statewide Emergency Telecommunications. To make residents aware of the new capability and educate on the proper uses, DESPP has launched a public education campaign that will include television and radio spots, online and cinema advertising, social media alerts, and outreach to targeted populations.
For more information on the Text-to-911 system and to see a demonstration of the capability, visit www.Text911CT.org.
Part of the public education campaign about the Text 911 system.