North Carolina 911 board launches statewide campaign promoting Text-to-911 service

RALEIGH, NC — The North Carolina 911 Board has launched a statewide public service announcement campaign to increase awareness of the state’s Text-to-911 service, which allows residents to contact emergency responders by text message when calling 911 is not possible or safe.

The 16-week campaign, developed in collaboration with Spectrum Reach, is airing on traditional television, streaming platforms, connected TV and mobile streaming services. It encourages the public to remember the message: “Call if you can, text if you can’t.”

Text-to-911 is intended for emergencies in which someone cannot safely make a voice call, including medical situations that prevent speaking, unsafe situations where calling could increase the risk of harm, or for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech-related disabilities.

According to the North Carolina 911 Board, more than 70,000 Text-to-911 messages were sent to emergency communication centers across the state in 2025, highlighting the growing use of the service.