Text with 9-1-1 (T9-1-1) is a specialized texting service available for people who are Deaf/Deaf-Blind, Hard-of-Hearing or Speech Impaired (DHHSI) that allows registered users to communicate with 9-1-1 call takers via text. To register, visit www.textwith911.ca.
Watch the step-by-step video below in American Sign Language to learn how the service works and what to expect if you need to contact 9-1-1.
T9-1-1 works differently than regular texting. There are very important things DHHSI persons need to know in order to use this special text service:
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- You must pre-register your cellphone with your cellphone company (such as TELUS, Rogers, Bell).
Click map to enlarge and see areas where T9-1-1 is available in B.C.
Visit this website to register: www.textwith911.ca
- You must have a cellphone that can make voice calls and send/receive texts. If you are not sure if your cellphone can do both, check with your cellphone company (such as TELUS, Rogers, Bell).
- Call from an area where T9-1-1 and cell service is available. Visit this website for a full list of communities where the service is available: www.textwith911.ca
- In an emergency, you must first dial 9-1-1 like any other caller to establish a voice connection – this is the only way a text session can start. Do not start texting until you get a text from the 9-1-1 operator.
- You must pre-register your cellphone with your cellphone company (such as TELUS, Rogers, Bell).
It is important that DHHSI persons register their cellphone for T9-1-1 and learn how the service works. Visit www.textwith911.ca to register your cellphone and learn more.