3 tips for VoIP 911 calls

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May 5th, 2008 - Posted by Joe

One of the questions we get asked most frequently from consumers that are evaluating VoIP service for the first time is whether or not VoIP is reliable in an emergency.

VoIP services handle 911 calls slightly differently than a standard telephone line. When you dial 911 on your VoIP handset the call is routed through a system called enhanced 911 or e911 which attempts to identify your physical location and, in turn, routes your call to the local emergency services in your area.

There are a few simple tips that can ensure that emergency calls made through your VoIP line, or through one of the alternatives we describe below, can be be every bit as reliable as 911 service on a standard landline.

1) When you do dial 911 through a VoIP line make sure you clearly communicate your name, phone number and address to the emergency operator. Since e911 typically routes calls to the local emergency services based on the address you used to sign up for the VoIP service, you can experience potential delays if your address has changed and not been updated with your VoIP provider. By alerting the operator immediately of your actual location you can ensure that you will get the most immediate response available and prevent them from making any erroneous assumptions about your whereabouts.

2) Lookup and record the local numbers for the various emergency services in your area. In most cases, this will be a local phone number that has the same area code as your home telephone number. By calling directly to your local emergency services phone number you can bypass the e911 system altogether and ensure that your emergency call will be properly routed. We recommend that you either program this local emergency number directly into your phone handset's speed dial or permanently affix it to the base of your phone in some fashion.

3) Keep a landline for emergencies. Most landline phone services will allow you to purchase a stripped down service package that only allows you to make local and 911 calls. With the prices of VoIP services being so low, most consumers will still see significant savings over a full service landline phone bill if they purchase VoIP service and a basic landline service package. The landline will be tapped into the standard 911 system, so you can benefit from the savings of VoIP while still leveraging traditional landline emergency services.

The most important element to any of these tips is making sure your family and anyone else that may be in your home during an emergency is aware of your emergency procedures. Make sure all family members, babysitters, household help or other visitors know the best way to contact emergency services through your VoIP line.

You can learn more about VoIP by reading our reviews and comparison of VoIP service providers.