911 for Deaf, Hard of Hearing, and Speech-Impaired Callers
Four ways to reach 911
Text‑to‑911 works in all 14 counties SPAG serves for 911. In Lubbock County, 911 is run by the Lubbock Emergency Communication District.
Text‑to‑911
Send a text message to 911 from your phone.
Best when: You have a phone with texting and cell service.
How to text 911TTY or TDD
Call 911 from your TTY. Federal rules say 911 centers must answer TTY calls, and SPAG’s 911 centers do.
Best when: You use a TTY at home or work.
Real-time text (RTT)
Many newer phones have RTT. The dispatcher sees your words as you type them. Check your phone’s call settings to turn it on.
Best when: Your phone has RTT and you want a live back-and-forth.
Relay service
Dial 711 to reach a relay operator, or use a video relay (VRS) app. The operator places the call and passes words between you and the dispatcher.
Best when: You already use relay every day.
A relay call works, but a direct text or TTY call is faster, because the dispatcher talks to you and not through an operator. If you use video relay, ask your provider to register your address so it can go with a 911 call.
If you text 911
Keep it short. These four steps get help moving fastest.
Step 1: Say where you are.
Give the address, or the road and the nearest crossroads, in your first message.Step 2: Say what is wrong.
A few words: fire, wreck, someone hurt, break-in.Step 3: Use plain words.
Full words, no abbreviations, slang, or emoji. Do not send photos or group texts.Step 4: Stay and answer.
The dispatcher will text back with questions. Keep the thread open.
If you can safely call, a voice call is still the fastest way.
If texting is not available where you are, you will get a reply telling you to call. Find who answers 911 in your county, or read about calling 911.