The Use of N11 Codes and Other Abbreviated Emergency Dialing Arrangements

The Commission, through this document, takes several steps towards implementation of 911 as the universal emergency assistance number for both wireline and wireless telephones. Specifically, the Commission adopts a maximum period for all carriers, serving areas with a designated public safety answering point (PSAP) or serving areas where a PSAP has not yet been designated, to transition to routing 911 calls to a PSAP, an existing statewide established default point, or an appropriate local emergency authority. The decision also addresses steps the Commission will take to encourage and support States in their efforts to develop and implement end-to-end emergency communications infrastructure and programs for the improved delivery of emergency services to the public. Finally, the decision clarifies that VHF Public Coast Station licensees are not required to use 911 dialing for accessing emergency services to the extent that they are providing maritime services. The action is taken to satisfy the Commission's legislative mandate and to promote public safety through the deployment of a seamless, nationwide emergency communications infrastructure that includes wireless communications services.