What if a 911 caller is Deaf, or hearing/speech impaired?
Communications centers that answer 911 calls have special text telephones for responding to 911 calls from Deaf or hearing/speech impaired callers.
If a caller uses a TTY/TDD, the caller should:
- Stay calm, place the phone receiver in the TTY, dial 911.
- After the call is answered, press the TTY keys several times. This may help shorten the time necessary to respond to the call.
- Give the call taker time to connect their TTY. If necessary, press the TTY keys again. The 911 call taker should answer and type "GA" for Go Ahead.
- Tell what is needed-police, fire department, or ambulance. Give your name, phone number and the address where help is needed.
- Stay on the telephone if it is safe. Answer the call taker’s questions.