Naperville’s Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) now accepts emergency texts to 911 from individuals who need immediate assistance but can’t talk to a 911 dispatcher. Verizon, AT&T and T-Mobile/Sprint customers within Naperville can text their exact location and the nature of their emergency to 911, and a dispatcher will respond.
It is still preferred that citizens call to 911 if possible, as it is faster and more reliable.
Using Text to 911 in an emergency might be helpful for individuals needing emergency assistance who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech disability, or are suffering a medical emergency that has rendered them unable to speak. It can also be used in situations where it is not safe to place a voice call to 911.
However, if citizens can make a voice call to 911 and it is safe to do so, that is the preferred method of reaching Naperville’s PSAP. Voice calls are usually the fastest, most efficient way to reach emergency help.
If there is an emergency and you are unable to make a voice call, follow these steps to text 911:
- Know your location – Type your exact location as soon as possible.
- Text what you need – Text what emergency help is needed: police, fire, and/or emergency medical.
- Be clear – Send a short message without abbreviations, slang, emojis, photos or video attachments.
- Stay calm – Answer questions and follow instructions from the 911 call taker. Please remember that texting 911 is for emergencies only. Misuse of the service, is similar to making a fake 911 call, and is against the law.
How do I text 911?
- Enter the numbers “911” in the “To” or “Recipient” field.
- The first text to 911 should include the location of the emergency and the type of help needed.
- Push the “Send” button.
If I send a text to 911, will the 911 center automatically know my location?
No. Texting 911 is different than making a voice call. When you call 911 from a mobile phone, the call center will usually receive your phone number and approximate location automatically. But if you text 911, the call taker may not receive your phone number or location. So, regardless if you text or call 911, it’s best practice to provide a correct address or location as quickly as possible.
Visit www.naperville.il.us/textto911 for more information about this new service.
