As many people are unaware, the Commonwealth of Massachusetts has a Silent Call procedure in place for persons calling for emergency services that may either be unable to speak without TTY access, or or in a situation in which speaking may inadvertently cause harm to come to the caller.
NO OTHER STATE HAS ENACTED SUCH POLICY. Why? It is time for this policy to be in place in all Dispatch offices for all states.
The Silent 9-1-1 protocol:
FIRST DIAL 9-1-1
Once the call is answered, indicate your need by pressing the appropriate number on your telephone.
IF YOU NEED POLICE
PRESS 1
IF YOU NEED FIRE
PRESS 2
IF YOU NEED AN AMBULANCE
PRESS 3
The 9-1-1 Dispatcher may ask questions that require yes or no answers.
PRESS 4 FOR YES
PRESS 5 FOR NO