NC 911 Board launches campaign to raise awareness of text‑to‑911

The 16‑week campaign is airing statewide across traditional linear television, streaming and connected TV platforms, and mobile streaming services. Its goal is to ensure the public understands when and how to use Text‑to‑911, especially in situations where every second counts. 

Text‑to‑911 is designed to support individuals who may be:

*Unable to speak due to a medical emergency 

*In unsafe situations where placing a voice call could increase the risk of harm 

*Deaf, hard of hearing, or experiencing a speech‑related disability 

Produced in collaboration with Spectrum Reach, the PSA reinforces a message central to public safety: “Call if you can, text if you can’t.” Ensuring residents know this option exists can directly influence how quickly emergency responders can reach them. 

“When calling is not possible or safe, texting gives people another lifeline to reach trained 911 professionals who are ready to respond,” said L.V. Pokey Harris, executive director of the N.C. 911 Board, in a press release. 

NCDIT leadership underscored the importance of statewide awareness of this capability. 

“Everyone should be able to reach 911, even when making a voice call is not possible or safe,” said Nate Denny, NCDIT Secretary and State Chief Information Officer, who chairs the N.C. 911 Board. “Text-to-911 provides a critical connection to emergency assistance, and this campaign will help ensure North Carolinians know that when they cannot call, they can still reach help.”