VoIP and 911 Numbes
As Voice over IP becomes the answer to many people’s communication dilemmas, there is one major component that is often overlooked by current and new users. In the United States, the 911 emergency hotline service is a very recognized number. People are taught at a very young age that when something bad happens, the first thing to do is call for help using 911. This emergency number is equivalent to 112 in Europe and both are often used when an emergency of any type takes place.
Unfortunately, VoIP systems may not automatically have these emergency number services. This biggest problem with this exclusion is that people have been so programmed to dial emergency numbers that they will not know who to call when the dialed number does not connect to anyone. Customers need to make sure to do their research of the VoIP service they are using. Some do not offer emergency number service at all so a land-line or cell phone will need to be kept at the office or at home. Other VoIP services have the capability of allowing emergency numbers as long as it is specifically requested. It is important for people to know for sure whether or not they need to have an emergency backup plan
