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1. Can I Text-to-9-1-1?

• Text-to-9-1-1 is not available everywhere and is not always available when roaming.
• Text-to-911 was made available in Dodge County Nebraska June 1, 2017
• You must subscribe to your wireless carrier’s text or data plan in order to make or receive text messages.
• If Text-to-9-1-1 is not available in your area, or is temporarily unavailable, you should receive a message indicating that Text-to-9-1-1 is not available and to contact 9-1-1 by other means.

2. When should I text 9-1-1?

• Text-to-9-1-1 is intended primarily for use in three emergency scenarios:
  • For an individual who is deaf, hard-of-hearing, or has a speech disability.
  • For someone who is in a situation where it is not safe to place a voice call to 9-1-1.
  • A medical emergency that renders the person incapable of speech.
• ONLY text 9-1-1 in an emergency. Prank-texters can be identified and possibly prosecuted according to local laws/regulations.

3. How do I text to 9-1-1?

• Enter the numbers “911” in the “To” or “Recipient” field;
• The first text to 9-1-1 should be short, include the location of the emergency, and ask for police, fire or ambulance.
• Push the “Send” button.
• Answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker.
• Text in simple words –no abbreviations or slang.
• Keep text messages short.

4. Is there a charge to text-to-9-1-1?

• Standard text messaging rates apply.

5. Can I text to 9-1-1 in languages other than English?

• The preferred language for texting to 9-1-1 is English.
• Translation services are not available in Dodge County at this time.

6. How will I know if 9-1-1 received my text?

• A 9-1-1 call center should respond to the text.
• If Text-to-9-1-1 is not available, you should receive a message from the wireless carrier stating that Text-to-9-1-1 is not available and that you must place a voice or relay call to 9-1-1.

7. What are the challenges with text-to-9-1-1 service?

• As with all text messages, Texts-to-9-1-1 may take longer to receive and respond to than a voice call, does not provide the location of the texter and could be received out of order, or may not be received at all.
• Text GPS location information is not equal to current wireless location technology.
• Voice calls are real-time communication and Text-to-9-1-1 is not.
• Pictures or videos cannot be received by 9-1-1 at this time. If you include anyone else on your Text-to-9-1-1 it may not be received by 9-1-1.
• At this time translation services for Text-to-9-1-1 are not available; please text in English only.