Is your PSAP interested in implementing Text-to-911?
Interim Text-to-911 frequently asked questions and considerations:
Purpose: This page is to provide additional information to 911 authorities/PSAPs when deciding when and how to accept interim solution SMS Text-to-911 calls. The information within the page should be considered with NENA’s SMS Text-to-911 PSAP Considerations Document.
For detailed instructions on implementing Text-to-911 in your jurisdiction, click here.
Each 911 authority/PSAP will need to consult with their wireless texting providers on the solutions offered for texting to ensure the proper solution is selected for their PSAP(s). The deployment of Text-to-911 will vary from jurisdiction to jurisdiction, much like wireless deployment.
Also, depending on the texting solution chosen, the texting capabilities may differ. The answers below are intended as guidance to some of the frequent questions in relation to Text-to-911.
Overview of the Interim Solutions
The interim Text-to-911 solution will be for the most commonly utilized texting technology, Short Message Service (SMS), texting only. The interim solution has three options in order to allow PSAPs that have not begun deploying NG911 services on the capability to receive text messages.
Text to TTY/TDD
This option will allow the PSAP to receive incoming text messages via their current TTY/TDD system. The text would display on the 911 equipment exactly like a TTY call. The Automatic Location Information (ALI) display will show the caller’s text number in the location where the wireless caller’s Call Back Number is displayed on voice calls, and the x/y coordinates of the cell site centroid where the person is texting. The text messages will be delivered via the existing 911 trunks, which would mean that once a text came in via this method the 911 trunk would be tied up and unable to accept another call or text session.
Web Portal
This solution would require a PSAP to have internet access. A separate web portal would be opened at the beginning of the shift and would need to be monitored for incoming text messages.
This solution may require a separate monitor for the web portal; however, some equipment manufacturers are working to incorporate the portal into the 911 display. The ALI will display the number associated with the device used for texting, and x/y coordinates of the cell site centroid of the person texting.
NG911 Interface
This solution would require the PSAP to have IP capable equipment and IP connectivity to the carrier. The text message will be delivered directly into the 911 equipment.
This solution should be compatible with a full NG911 I3 solution. The ALI display will contain information similar to a wireless caller today including the x/y coordinates of the cell site centroid.
Additional Resources:
FCC’s Best Practices for Implementing Text-to-911
NENA Interim Text-to-911 Information and Training for Telecommunications