Broadband phone companies (VoIP) are popping up all over the place allowing consumers to save money on calls.

Many of these internet-based services are exempt from the 911 system. One of the most popular states in their terms of service that 911 dialing will be routed through the general telephone number for the local emergency service provider (which may not be answered outside business hours).

In addition, the caller’s phone number and location does not appear if you do get a dispatcher. This should be fixed in some areas by year’s end.

When shopping around make sure you ask if they provide complete 911 service, and be sure it works.

~ David

David Samuel Thomas