All 92 Indiana counties can now accept 911 calls via text message in situations where callers cannot speak.
(Indianapolis, Ind.) - Indiana is the only state where 911 operators can initiate text messages after receiving a dropped or disconnected 911 call.
Statewide 911 Board executive director Ed Reuters tells the Associated Press that Indiana is the nation’s leader in technology regarding text-to-911 systems. Residents in all 92 counties can now ask for help during emergencies via text message if they are unable to speak to dispatchers.
It has been four years since Indiana's dispatch centers were authorized to begin accepting texts. Today, dispatch centers receive between 500 and 600 text-to-911 calls every day.
While many people in need of emergency help should still contact 911 with a traditional voice call, the text message option could become handy in certain situations. Examples include a situation in which somebody cannot speak, is hearing impaired, or hiding from an intruder.
Wireless phone users should only use the text option when calling 911 is not an option, the 911 board advises.
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