After 4 Years, Indiana Embraces Text-To-911 In Emergencies

Four years after Indiana’s dispatch centers began adopting text-to-911 technology, residents in all 92 of the state’s counties can now send texts during emergencies if they’re unable to speak to dispatchers.

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Indiana’s dispatch centers now receive an average of between 500 and 600 text-to-911 calls every day and the technology is exceeding expectations statewide, said Ed Reuter, the executive director of the Statewide 911 Board.

“Indiana is the nation’s leader,” he told.

While calling 911 remains the first and best option, Reuter said texting is encouraged for deaf callers and those who are hearing- or speech impaired; those who can’t speak due to medical conditions such as a stroke; or situations such as a home invasion where speaking would be unsafe.