Text for 9-1-1

Text to 911 Animation

 

9-1-1

Call when you can,
Text when you can't!

What is Text for 9-1-1?

Text for 9-1-1 allows you to send a text message to reach 9-1-1 during an emergency. It is designed to help when calling isn't possible, whether it's unsafe, you have a speech/hearing disability, or a situation prevents you from speaking.

📍 Text for 9-1-1 is available statewide in Alabama

📱 How to Text 9-1-1

1

Open your text messaging app.

2

Enter 911 as the recipient.

3

Type your exact location first.

4

Briefly describe the emergency.

5

Send the message and stay with your phone.

6

Answer all questions from the telecommunicator.

Tip: Keep messages short and avoid slang or abbreviations.

✅ When to Text Instead of Call

  • Unable to Speak: You are unable to speak due to injury or medical emergency.
  • Danger: Speaking would put you in further danger.
  • Disability: You have a hearing or speech disability.
  • Environment: You are in an environment where calling isn't possible (noisy event, low-signal area where texts may send but calls fail).
  • Signal: Your cellular signal or battery life is too poor to place a voice call.

More Information

ℹī¸ What You Should Know & Best Practices

Call if you can, text if you can't. Voice calls are still the fastest way to get help.

  • Text for 9-1-1 is available statewide in Alabama.
  • You must have a text-capable phone with an active service plan.
  • Location accuracy is sometimes limited. ALWAYS provide your exact address or landmarks.
  • Texting 9-1-1 is free, even without a texting plan.
  • Include your location in the first text; update your location if you are moving.
  • Use simple, clear sentences.
  • Silence your phone in dangerous situations before you text 9-1-1.
  • Do not send emojis, photos, or links unless 9-1-1 asks you to.
📲 Responding to a Text from 9-1-1 & Considerations

Sometimes a 9-1-1 center may text you first if:

  • They received a disconnected 9-1-1 call.
  • They believe you cannot speak safely.
  • They need clarification or a response and your call dropped.

Important: If you receive a text from "911," respond immediately; it is a real emergency communication.

Considerations:

  • If Text for 9-1-1 is unavailable, you should receive an automatic "bounce-back" message telling you to place a voice call.
  • If you do NOT receive a bounce-back message but also receive no reply from 9-1-1, try sending your message again.
  • If possible, attempt a voice call even if the signal is weak - sometimes calls will still connect.
đŸ“ĸ Spread the Word

Text for 9-1-1 saves lives, especially for:

  • Domestic violence survivors
  • Deaf or hard-of-hearing individuals
  • Children or teens who may be scared to call
  • Victims hiding during an active threat
  • Anyone whose call won't go through

Share this resource with your family, school, workplace, and community.