Can You Text North Dakota Police For Help? Here’s What You Need To Know

The holiday season is a time where we do a lot of somewhat dangerous activities. We travel, we climb onto our roofs to put up decorations, we go to social and family gatherings, and we spend more time out in the cold temps to get our Christmas shopping done.

All of these activities pose a bit of a risk. With that, you never know when you may need to call authorities for help.

Text 9-1-1?

Did you know, that in North Dakota, you can text 9-1-1?According to ND.gov, this is not the preferred method of contact to authorities, but it is a feature we offer.

Yes, North Dakota is one of 30 states that has this texting feature. Having this could mean life or death for people with hearing and/or speech impairments.

It could also be critical for those who are in domestic violence, home invasion and/or active shooter situations. This could be a vital lifeline.

Yep, our state is modernizing digital communications.

Here's What You Do

• Open your phone's text messaging app
• Enter 9-1-1 into the "To" field
• Type a brief message that includes the location of the emergency --this is very important. You also should include what type of emergency it is; do you need fire, medical, or police assistance?
• Send message
• After that, be ready to answer questions from police personnel.

***Pictures and videos cannot be received at this time.***

Warning

Keep in mind, texting 9-1-1 is only for emergency situations. It is actually a crime to make a false report and remember: authorities say that if you can call 9-1-1, that is preferred, as those calls are quicker and provide more information to emergency call centers.