One moment, the campfire crackles under a clear night sky. The next, thunder roars overhead, dark clouds roll in and you realize you can’t get to safety. Fallen trees block your car and your phone has no signal for a call. 
Did you know you can text 911? 

You’re facing a dangerous situation: an intruder in your home, or domestic violence where speaking out loud could put you at even greater risk. 
Did you know you can text 911? 

You witness a crime and need to report it without drawing attention. 
Did you know you can text 911? 

Text-to-911 is a different way to get help when you can’t make a voice call. Texting should only be used when you can’t make a voice call. 

People who are deaf, deafblind, hard of hearing or speech impaired may use text-to-911 as a first contact option. 

Remember: “Call if you can, text if you can’t.” 

Watch how one group of campers got help — all through a single text to 911. 

How to text 911: 

• Enter the number 911 in the "To" field. 

• Text message should include your location and type of emergency. 

• Send the message. 

• Be ready to answer questions and follow instructions. 

• Use simple words. 

• Do not use abbreviations, emojis, pictures or slang.  

• Do not text and drive. 

It is a crime to text 911 with a false report. If you accidentally send a text to 911, send another text or place a call to let the dispatcher know that there is no emergency. 

Learn more about text-to-911 from our Emergency Communications Network division.