Tarrant County 9-1-1 District implemented text to 9-1-1 in Tarrant County in November of 2020. Texting to 9-1-1 is another option for citizens to get help in an emergency and does not replace calling 9-1-1. At this time, in Tarrant County, citizens cannot text photos, videos, and audio to 9-1-1. When texting 9-1-1, do not use emojis (emojis do not go through) or abbreviations as the 9-1-1 call-taker may not understand some abbreviations. Language translation services are not available when using text to 9-1-1, nor is the ability to initiate a group text with others when texting 9-1-1.
When would you text 9-1-1?
• In an emergency, when it may not be safe to call 9-1-1, such as a hostage situation, active shooter, domestic violence, or other acts of violence where you don’t want a specific person(s) to know you are contacting 9-1-1.
Does 9-1-1 get a more accurate location of my cell phone when I text 9-1-1?
• No, texting works the same as calling 9-1-1 when it comes to cell phone location by using your phone’s GPS. Just like calling 9-1-1, give the location or the address of the emergency first.
How do I text 9-1-1, and what is the process?
• Start a new text conversation and type 911 in the recipient box. Enter the location or address of the emergency in the message box and tap send. An automatic response will display.
*actual text 9-1-1 automatic response; the city will depend on your location*
• A 9-1-1 call-taker will respond with questions and information regarding your emergency. Once help has been received and first responders have arrived on the scene of the emergency, the 9-1-1 call-taker will end the text conversation.
*actual text 9-1-1 disconnect, the city will depend on your location*
If you have more questions about text to 9-1-1, please contact our Communication Coordinator Abigail Dudek at PublicEd@tc911.org, or you can direct message her on our Tarrant County 9-1-1 District Facebook and Instagram page.