Can’t Talk in an Emergency? Now You Can Text 9-1-1

Beginning today, Marylanders have the option of texting 9-1-1 for help if they cannot call the number.

In an emergency, it is not always possible to speak out loud so the Maryland assembly adopted a way to enable those with a cell phone to text in their emergency. Sen. Cheryl Kagan of District 17, NG911 commission chair, headed the effort.

When texting, those needing assistance should enter 9-1-1 in the “to” line and enter a brief message that includes their location and whether they need police, fire or ambulance. Then hit send and respond to questions the 9-1-1 specialists asks.

🚨IMPORTANT- as of TODAY you can now text 911 in Maryland. Residents and visitors have a new way to safely contact law enforcement if they find themselves in a situation where a phone call simply isn’t an option.

Read more- https://t.co/Yc99rE5Pcr

— Nancy Navarro (@nancy_navarro) August 20, 2020

"Call if you can, text if you can't"!

911 call centers in @MontgomeryCoMD are now accepting text messages. Thanks to our State partners @CherylKagan as their work to bring Maryland's 9-1-1 technology into the future is realized. @mcfrs @mcpnews https://t.co/AjQ6XKcJNo

— Councilmember Andrew Friedson (@Andrew_Friedson) August 20, 2020

REPOST with Corrected link to Add'l Information:

Text-To-911 is now available in Maryland!

If you're experiencing an emergency and are unable to place a voice call, you can send a text to 911.

For more info on how to use text-to-911, please visit: https://t.co/T9MHusCe2I pic.twitter.com/zVOfkS3SQ9

— Montgomery County Department of Police (@mcpnews) August 20, 2020

About Suzanne Pollak

Suzanne is a freelance reporter with Montgomery Community Media. She has over 35 years professional experience writing for newspapers, magazines, non-profit newsletters and the web.

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