Internet-Based Messaging Providers Should Support Text-To-911 Too, Suggests FCC

The FCC has been acting like the voice of truth and reason lately. Just a week after asking the FAA to allow the use of electronic devices during flights, the agency is now suggesting that wireless carriers and Internet-based messaging providers be required to allow its users to send emergency text messages to 911 call centers. The report follows after major carriers in the U.S., namely Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, and T-Mobile, agreed to push text-to-911 capabilities by 2014. The FCC is now bringing up the possibility as to whether or not the emergency service can be applied to Internet-based services as well.

In a statement made by FCC, the agency stressed saying, “Text-to-911 servces will keep pace with how consumers communicate today and can provide a lifesaving alternative in situations where a person with a hearing or speech disability is unable to make a voice call, where voice networks are congested, or where a 911 voice call could endanger the caller.” The FCC also proposed that carriers and Internet-based service providers consider adding a “bounce back” feature that will send automatic text messages to users informing them that the said service is not yet available in their location.

Gene Ryan Briones
Categories: Cellphones, General
Tags: 911, sms