Text-To-911 Now Available in Maryland

Anyone who is experiencing an emergency in Maryland and is unable to place a voice call to 911 can now send a text message to 911.

Follow these steps to request emergency services via text:

• Enter 911 in the “To” line.
• Enter a brief message that includes the location of the emergency and type of service needed – police, fire or ambulance.
• Hit send.
• Respond to questions from the responding 911 specialist and follow the instructions they quickly provide.

Tips for using text-to-911:

• If text-to-911 is not available in your area, or if it is temporarily unavailable, you should receive a message from your carrier letting you know to place a phone or relay call.
• Pictures and/or videos cannot be received by 911 via text.
• If you include another contact on your text, it may not be received by 911.
• English is the preferred language for text. However, some limited translation services may be available.
• Text in short, simple messages. Do not use abbreviations or slang.
• Do not text and drive.