The Faribault Police Department wanted to let everyone know Text-to-911 is available in Minnesota.

Captain Neal Pederson says they prefer you phone 911 in an emergency but if you can't call then text.

Text-to-911 can also be the first contact option for individuals who are deaf, deaf-blind, hard of hearing or those with speech impairments.

Text-to-911 should only be used when a person can't safely make a voice call.

Captain Pederson says for example when a person must stay quiet in order to remain safe.

Text-to-911 can be a discreet way to report domestic violence, home invasions, human trafficking and suicidal individuals.

Here is how you Text 911

  1. Enter the numbers 911 in the "To" field.
  2. Text your exact location and type of emergency.
  3. Send the message.
  4. Promptly answer questions and follow instructions.

You should use simple words.  Do not use abbreviations, emojis, pictures, or slang (BTW, IDK, etc...)

Don not text and drive.

Texting 911 just like phoning 911 with a false report is a crime.

If you accidentally send a text to 911, send another text, or call 911 and let the dispatcher know there is no emergency.

Emergency response may be lengthened due to the time it takes for the message to be typed and sent.

Dispatchers prefer calls because they can often get cues from background noise and voice inflections.

If you text 911, dispatchers will ask if they can call you.

The reason law enforcement would prefer us to call versus text is the fact location is not as accurate with text as with a call.  So be sure to text your exact address.

A text or data plan is required to use Text-to-911.  Texts to 911 will get a bounce back message if you are roaming.

There is no language translation service for texts to 911 either.

How to Text-to-911
How to Text-to-911
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