If it’s an emergency and you don’t have time to check, simply try texting to 9-1-1. You will receive a bounce-back text, which is mentioned later, if the technology is not yet available in your area.
Include which service you need, where you need that service, and why you need that service. For example, “Need ambulance at the corner of Sunset and Western due to car accident. “[4] X Research source If you do not know your precise location, list roads, landmarks, and other clues that could help emergency services find you. For example, something like, “By a theater called Hilton’s, somewhere on the west side of town. “[5] X Research source Try to include all the information right away. A dispatcher will want to get services to you as quickly as possible, so do not withhold necessary information like an address, if you have one. [6] X Research source
You cannot send photos, videos, or other media to 9-1-1 via text. All you can include are letters or numbers. [7] X Research source You have to be in range of your cell phone’s tower to text 9-1-1 in some situations. Texts to 9-1-1 may not go through if you’re roaming. [8] X Research source
A voice call is your best option for contacting emergency services. Texts are not always read right away and, if you accidentally leave out information, a back and forth exchange can take awhile. Even if you’re in an area where texting 9-1-1 is an option, only use it when calling 9-1-1 is not possible. [13] X Research source
As you would do when texting 9-1-1, let this other person know the nature of the emergency. Tell them where you are, what services you need, and why you need them. For example, you could text a friend, “Uber driver took me way off track, is becoming aggressive, we’re on Highway 101 heading north near exit 43, call the police. "
