Text to 9-1-1 refers to the ability to send text messages to local 9-1-1 call centers during an emergency. All dispatch centers in Larimer County are currently equipped to receive and handle text-to-9-1-1 calls.

Call if you can, text if you must. You should only text 9-1-1 if it is the only option and making a voice call to 9-1-1 is not possible. This service will be very useful to those who are hard of hearing, deaf, or speech impaired. Some other examples would be:

• The caller is facing a threatening situation and a voice call could increase the threat.
• The caller is injured or suffered a medical condition and cannot speak.
• The caller is in a remote location and can only send out a text message.
• Phone lines and cell phone towers are overwhelmed and only a text can get through.

• Enter the numbers “911” in the “To” field (do not enter with dashes like “9-1-1”)
• The first text message to 911 should be brief and contain the location of the emergency and type of help needed
• Push the send button
• Be prepared to answer questions and follow instruction from the 9-1-1 call taker
• Text in simple words – do not use abbreviations.
• Keep text messages brief and concise.
• Once you have initiated a text-to-9-1-1 conversation, do not delete the message or turn off your phone until the dispatcher tells you it is ok. Call centers can only receive and reply to text 9-1-1 calls and cannot initiate a text message conversation without the caller texting 9-1-1 first.

Currently, Verizon Wireless, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, Cricket Wireless, Union Telephone Company, Comcast and Viaero Wireless have agreed to offer the Text to 9-1-1 service. Several other Tier 2 carriers also support text to 9-1-1.

If you send a text message to 9-1-1 outside of Larimer County and that area does not currently receive text messages, you will receive a message indicating that texting 9-1-1 is not available and you should make a voice call to 9-1-1.

Some over the top applications may support text-to-9-1-1. 

YES, we can receive photos and videos (prerecorded or live). Call or text 9-1-1 and the 9-1-1 dispatcher will send you a link. Once you accept the link, you can upload photos, videos, or allow live video to stream to the 9-1-1 dispatcher.  The 91-1 dispatcher can share the photos, videos, and live streaming video with the responding emergency services personnel.  

When you make a voice call to 9-1-1, the call taker will typically receive your phone number and your approximate location automatically. This is called “Enhanced 9-1-1” or “E9-1-1.” However, when you text 9-1-1 from a wireless phone, the call taker will not receive this automated information. For this reason, if you send a text message to 9-1-1, it is important to give the 9-1-1 call taker an accurate address or location as quickly as possible.

Many areas of Colorado are now able to accept text-to-9-1-1. The FCC maintains a master list of PSAPs, nationwide that are ready for text-to-9-1-1. You can download the list directly from the FCC Website.