RALEIGH, N.C. (WHKY) – North Carolina is launching a statewide public service campaign to raise awareness of Text-to-911. The N.C. 911 Board, which operates under the North Carolina Department of Information Technology (NCDIT), says the 16-week campaign will air on traditional television, streaming and connected TV platforms, and mobile streaming services. Text-to-911 provides another way to reach emergency responders when making a voice call is not possible or safe.

Officials say the service can be especially important for people who are unable to speak because of a medical emergency, those in dangerous situations where making a call could increase the risk of harm, and people who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have a speech-related disability.

The campaign, produced with Spectrum Reach, emphasizes the message: “Call if you can, text if you can’t.” More than 70,000 Text-to-911 messages were sent to emergency communication centers across North Carolina in 2025. Officials say knowing the service is available could help residents connect with emergency assistance when every second counts.