This is very interesting. I can see where texting might be necessary to remain quiet while observing a robbery in progress in a store or a burglary in one's home.
Both of my cellphones have texting capability but I haven't a clue how to do it on either phone. I probably should learn how. :-)
By WILSON RING May. 19, 2014 7:01 PM EDT
MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) -- The four major U.S. wireless phone companies are providing emergency texting 911 service as of this month to any local government that wants it and has the capability to use it, a big step toward moving the nation's emergency dispatch system out of the voice-only technology that dates to the 1960s.
Local governments in 16 states are using it, according to the Federal Communications Commission, and Vermont became the first to offer the technology statewide Monday.
"This is a big deal," Brian Fontes, the chief executive officer of the Virginia-based National Emergency Number Association, said of the four major carriers offering text-to-911.
"It's been a long time -- years, decades -- since our nation's 911 systems have been advanced. They are pretty much still almost 100 percent voice-centric, 1960s technology."
Fontes said that 911 texting is part of a broader push to use technology to enhance the information that can be provided to emergency responders.
"In today's technology world where you and I and other people have smartphones that can do many different things simultaneously, it's important that we have the opportunity to ensure that our nation's 911 centers are equally equipped with technology."
Some professional sports teams allow fans to report unruly behavior inside stadiums and arenas through texting, while law enforcement has started using text messaging during standoff negotiations.
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Thad