I recently heard that 9-1-1 can be reachable via text message. This made me curious, as if this was available when I experienced the final DV incident I would have used it FOR SURE.

I started investigating and my area has that availability. If you’re interested in knowing if your area has the texting availability for 9-1-1, here’s the site to look it up: https://www.fcc.gov/consumers/guides/what-you-need-know-about-text-911. There is a list on this sight of service availability, so you can look up your specific area by law enforcement jurisdiction. If there is a true emergency, calls are always better, but if you cannot call, TEXT. This is Godsend to DV victims, especially during these times of pandemic issues. If a victim has to hide from their abuser, this still allows them to contact help. It’s also helpful for people with hearing loss/deafness, for people who cannot speak, and places with spotty cell phone service — texts usually are smaller and can squeak through silently!

The above graphic outlines how to text 9-1-1. Please state location, when you start messaging, specifically with an address / location, if you can. Texts take a little more time than voice calls, but are still pretty fast!

Thought this was worth mentioning. Hope this blesses someone! Be safe everyone!