Accessibility
Text to 911
When possible, always call 911. If you can’t safely make a voice call, Text-to-911 provides another way to reach emergency services.
Text-to-911 allows you to send a text message directly to the Sussex County 911 Center from your mobile phone during an emergency. This service is especially important for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, have a speech disability, are unable to speak because of a medical emergency, or are in a situation where speaking could place them in danger. While Text-to-911 is an important alternative, calling 911 remains the fastest and most reliable way to request emergency assistance.
When to Use
✓ You cannot safely speak during an emergency.
✓ You are deaf or hard of hearing.
✓ You have a speech disability.
✓ A medical emergency prevents you from speaking.
✓ A voice call is not possible.
Important Reminders
- Always call 911 if you can safely speak.
- Do not text and drive.
- Photos, videos, and group text messages cannot be sent through Text-to-911.
Video 911
Video 911 enhances emergency response by allowing dispatchers to securely request a live video stream from a caller’s smartphone during an active emergency.
With the caller’s permission, dispatchers can view the scene in real time to better understand injuries, hazards, or other critical details that may not be communicated through a voice call alone.
This additional information helps dispatchers make more informed decisions and provides first responders with valuable situational awareness before they arrive.
TTD / TTY
Sussex County 911 is committed to ensuring everyone has access to emergency services.
Individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing, deafblind, or have a speech disability can communicate with the Sussex County 911 Center through a variety of accessible communication services.
TTY (Text Telephone) and TDD (Telecommunications Device for the Deaf) are specialized devices that allow users to type messages over a telephone line instead of speaking. While these devices remain fully supported, many callers today use newer technologies such as Voice Carry Over (VCO), IP Relay, and Video Relay Services (VRS).
Through the Delaware Relay Service, a trained communications assistant relays the conversation between the caller and the 911 Center, ensuring clear, accurate, and timely communication during an emergency. These services are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, at no additional cost.
When to Use
- ✓ You are deaf or hard of hearing.
- ✓ You have a speech disability or are unable to speak.
- ✓ You use a TTY/TDD device.
- ✓ You use Voice Carry Over (VCO), IP Relay, or another relay service.
- ✓ You need assistance communicating with a 911 dispatcher.