911 and emergency calling

911 requires a registered service address

Before 911 service is active on a DialRingo number, you must provide the physical street address where the number will be used. This registered address is what emergency dispatchers rely on to send help. Until a valid service address is registered for a number, 911 calling is not available on that number.

• Register an address for every number before you start using it for calls.
• Update the address immediately when you move or use the service from a new location. Address changes can take time to propagate to emergency systems.
• If you call 911 from somewhere other than your registered address, emergency services may be dispatched to the wrong location.

When 911 may not work

Unlike a traditional copper landline, VoIP calling depends on electrical power and a working internet connection at your location, and on our service being active. 911 calling may fail or be unavailable if:

• Your location loses electrical power.
• Your internet or broadband connection is down, degraded, or congested.
• Your network hardware (router, modem, computer) fails or is powered off.
• There is a service outage affecting DialRingo or its carrier partners.
• Your account is suspended or disconnected, including for non-payment.
• Your registered service address is missing, invalid, or out of date.

What dispatchers see

When you call 911 over VoIP, your location and callback number may not be transmitted to the dispatcher automatically the way they are from a landline. Depending on how your call is routed, you should be prepared to state your location and phone number clearly, and to call back if the call is dropped.

Your responsibilities

• Keep the registered service address current for every DialRingo number you use.
• Tell everyone who may use the service, including employees, household members, and guests, that it is a VoIP service with the 911 limitations described on this page.
• Maintain an alternative way to reach 911, such as a mobile phone or a traditional landline.