The Federal Communications Commission wants to bring the 911 emergency service into the 21st century with new technologies such as text messaging and automatic alerts, CNET reports. In a speech on Nov. 23, FCC Chairman Julius Genachowski said it “is time to bring 911 into the Digital Age.” He said this was important, as more and more people in the United States use cell phones. Text messaging, in particular, is an important feature to add to 911 call centers, he said. About 70 percent of 911 calls already come from mobile phones, he said. And as more people text instead of talk on their phones, it makes sense to add texting capabilities to the 911 emergency service. Texting is also particularly helpful for people who have disabilities…
Laura Ascione is the Editorial Director at eSchool Media. She is a graduate of the University of Maryland's prestigious Philip Merrill College of Journalism.
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