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What is E911?

By , About.com Guide

Question: What is E911?
Answer:

E911 stands for Enhanced 911. It is an enhanced version of the 911 emergency service, and is provided by conventional phone companies. When you use this service, your personal information like name and address are automatically given to your local dispatch center or Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP).

To dial E911, simply dial 9-1-1. This service is being included into VoIP packages, although the implementation is very slow and problematic. That’s why you should always ask about 911 when contracting a VoIP service.

When you sign for VoIP service, you must give a permanent address along with your name. If you change address, make sure you update it with your provider. If you use your VoIP service while on the move, then E911 might not be very helpful as they only have a fixed address to locate you.

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