2. SMS to 9-1-1?
(uses the "phone side")

• A few countries have SMS to their emergency numbers

• SMS uses the voice network… could it be used with location information?

  • How it would work: You would send an SMS to 9-1-1

• Advantages

  • All phones already have it

  • Coverage = hearing/voice coverage

• Disadvantages

  • SMS is not completely reliable – may be delayed, sometimes messages are lost

  • Was not intended for 9-1-1

  • 9-1-1 centers would have to be modified to accept SMS and get location information from an SMS – long term solution

  • May require sign-up to avoid fraud? (true in other countries)

  • Will consumers know how to use it? (some folks use only to contact hearing people with cell phones)