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Emergency Services

7-1-1 is not a substitute for 9-1-1 in emergencies. TTY users should call 9-1-1 or their local TTY-equipped emergency center directly. 

Blue Cell Phone Making an Emergency Call

How Do Emergency Services Work?

The 9-1-1 operators have TTY machines and are trained to respond appropriately to TTY users. 

7-1-1 is NOT a substitute for TTY users requiring emergency services.

TTY users who cannot obtain emergency service via 911 may call 7-1-1 and inform the relay operator there is an emergency situation.

Calling through the relay service may take longer than calling 911 directly.

 

Relay Texas Customer Profile

The Relay Texas Customer Profile form allows consumers to list their preferences for calls, such as:

  • Frequently dialed numbers
  • Emergency numbers
  • Preferred gender of operator
  • Announcing relay service

As a consumer, you have flexibility in updating your preferences at any time.

Learn more
laptop with the Customer Profile Login Page on the screen

FAQs

We want to simplify your life. In the following you see answers to some questions that might arise.

 

When should you call 9-1-1 directly?

If you have an emergency, you should call your local TTY-equipped emergency services center or 9-1-1 directly. The operators are trained and have TTY machines to respond to persons with speech or hearing disabilities.
Is calling 7-1-1 the same as calling 9-1-1 in an emergency?

No. 7-1-1 is not a substitute for 9-1-1. It is the relay access number for non-emergency calls. Calling 9-1-1 directly is faster and more appropriate in emergencies.
What should you do if you use TTY and cannot get help via 9-1-1?

If you’re using TTY and cannot obtain emergency service through 9-1-1, you may call 7-1-1 and tell the relay operator that there’s an emergency. The operator will then handle your call as an emergency relay call.
Why is calling through the relay service longer than dialing 9-1-1 directly?

Because relay calls go through an additional step (the relay operator), the process takes more time. That's why you should call 9-1-1 directly when possible — every second counts in an emergency.

Contact Us

Our customer service is available 24 hours 7 days a week to assist with technical support, any of your relay questions and/or concerns. 
Contact Us