911 Calls

Q – How do I place an emergency/911 call on InspireChat™?

A – If you have an emergency you should use your standard telephone line or tty to call your local emergency service number directly. The nature of internet-based telecommunications relay services does not allow Hamilton to recognize your location and the services should not be used for emergency calls.

If you no longer have a telephone line and/or a tty, you may place an emergency call using Hamilton Relay's InspireChat™. Enter 911 in the "Number to Dial" box and click on the button below for 911 calls. This will put your emergency call ahead of other callers. You will be required to provide important information including your specific location as well as the nature of your emergency.

Q – How does calling 911 through InspireChat™ work?

A – Because the Internet functions differently than the standard telephone network, your specific location information is not able to automatically be given to emergency personnel. Therefore, the CA will connect to the emergency call center through a third party agency that keeps track of the local Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP) centers across the country that handle emergency/911 calls. You will be required to provide your specific location, as well as the nature of your emergency to the CA when connected. Your call with then be directed to the nearest PSAP to you and emergency personnel will communicate with you through the CA regarding your emergency.

Q – How long will it take for me to connect with the emergency center (Public Safety Answering Point, PSAP)?

A – It could take some time to get your call connected to the correct PSAP. If you have a TTY or a land-line phone, we encourage you to dial 911 directly as it will be answered by the PSAP more quickly.