SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/text-911-if-you-cant-call

In an emergency, when should you text 911 instead of calling?

Call if you can, text if you can't.

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The Just Right card

Too littleNever contact 911 by text
Too muchAlways text, it's quicker
Just rightText when a voice call is not possible

Huh, didn't know that: If texting isn't available where you are, you'll get an automatic reply telling you to make a voice call.

The dad joke
What did the mouse say to the keyboard? You're just my type.
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References

Answer: When calling is not possible or safe. Calling is still best. Text 911 if you can't speak or it isn't safe to talk. Put your exact location in the first text.

  1. City of Richmond, VA, Emergency Communications: Text-to-911 rva.gov/911/text-911
    911: Call if you can, text if you can't
    Checked 2026-10-09.
  2. City of Richmond, VA, Emergency Communications: Text-to-911 rva.gov/911/text-911
    If you do not receive a reply by text or if you receive a reply that texting is not available, call 911.
    Checked 2026-10-09.

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