This blog has covered the growing use of text messages for connecting with 911 emergency services. More dispatchers are adding support for this method as it is a way that many people like to connect. There are also times, like in the case of those hard of hearing or in the case where a voice call is impossible, where a text message is the only way to seek help.
According to an article from ABC News, the four major wireless carriers in the United States — AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile and Verizon — have started hosting support for text message 911 in areas where dispatchers are equipped to receive messages. That was announced by the Federal Communications Commission.
While the carriers are supporting this service, it does not necessarily mean that it will be available in your area. Trey Fogerty, the director of government affairs at the National Emergency Number Association, told the news source that call centers will need to improve their technology so they will be able to support the technology.
"If they are stuck with legacy technology or are planning for an upgrade to next generation 911, they can begin taking texts today using TTY [a service to help the hearing impaired]," Fogerty said.
Text messages have become a bigger part of communication aside from the obvious reasons why this feature is needed. This shows how technology is changing and text messaging services are going to be part of a number of different services in the years to come.
