Can I text message or instant message 9-1-1?

Yes. That said, text-to-9-1-1 is a best efforts attempt to facilitate communication to 9-1-1. It does not provide the same level of location information as a voice call. It is always faster to place a voice call to 9-1-1. However, in some situations when the caller does not want to speak because they fear for their safety text-to-9-1-1 is appropriate.

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1. Why does 9-1-1 ask so many questions?
2. Does the time I take answering questions delay the dispatch of emergency units?
3. When will help arrive?
4. Can I text message or instant message 9-1-1?
5. Can Automatic Telephone Tape Dialers call 9-1-1?
6. Are there any other telephone lines answered at the 9-1-1 center other than 9-1-1?
7. Do I really need to have my address number on my home or business?
8. Can I just have my address number on my mailbox?
9. If I accidentally call 9-1-1 can I just hang up?
10. What should I do if I am unhappy with the service I received from calling 9-1-1?