In the event of an emergency, Hoosiers can now text 911 to receive help. Certain areas of the state already implemented the Text-to-911 Program, and now it is available in all 92 counties.
When faced with an emergency, you should still call 911 and talk to the dispatcher if you are able to. Texting 911 is not as quick as making a phone call and should only be used when you are unable to speak.
If you do need to text 911, be sure to include important information like your location and the nature of the emergency. Be sure to keep your message concise and do not use abbreviations. If your text message is not received or cannot be processed, you will receive a bounce-back message instructing you to call 911.
Dispatchers are now also able to initiate texts after a call is disconnected or dropped. A majority of calls come from cellphones, so when an emergency call is disconnected, a text is sent to see whether there is an emergency.
Visit www.in911.net to learn more about Indiana’s Text-to-911 program, and keep in mind this life-saving resource is now an option in an emergency.
