Text to 9-1-1 is available

San Diego County Sheriff’s Department

Emergencies can happen to anyone, anywhere at any time. When you need to be quiet and making a phone call could place you in danger, Text to 9-1-1 is available in San Diego County.

This lifesaving service has been available countywide since January of 2021 which includes the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, as well as all police, fire and Emergency Medical Service agencies.

Calling is still the fastest way to reach 9-1-1. Voice calls allow a dispatcher to ask questions and obtain information from the caller more quickly. When calling from a landline, the call taker will automatically receive the address associated with the telephone number. An approximate location of your device is also received when calling from a cell phone.

However, there are situations when texting may be the better option:

• You're deaf, hard of hearing, non-verbal or have difficulty speaking

• You're in a situation where it's not safe to call 9-1-1 for help

• You're having a medical emergency and cannot speak on the phone

How does Text to 9-1-1 work?

• Enter the numbers 911 in the "To" field without any dashes

• Give the location and nature of your emergency

• Send the text message

• Respond to dispatcher questions and follow instructions

Data and message rates may apply. Do not use emojis, abbreviations and acronyms. Messages sent to 9-1-1 cannot include other people.

Similar to 9-1-1 calls, Text to 9-1-1 is for emergencies only. Intentional misuse of the system is a crime and is a punishable offense. If you accidentally sent a message, send a reply clarifying there is no emergency. Cell phone reception varies by location. If Text to 9-1-1 is not available, you will receive a bounce back message asking you to call 9-1-1.

Remember: Call if you can, Text ONLY if you can't.