For individuals with hearing or speech disabilities, the telephone system can present unique challenges. Telecommunications Relay Services (TRS) bridge this gap, enabling communication through a text telephone (TTY) or other devices. Making these services accessible is crucial, and that’s where 711 comes in.
Imagine needing to make a call using TRS. Instead of remembering and dialing a lengthy ten-digit access number, you can simply dial 711 from any phone in the United States. This three-digit number connects you directly to a TRS communications assistant, making the process fast, functional, and free. Whether you’re using a traditional voice phone or a TTY device, 711 simplifies access to TRS.
This ease of access extends to various telephone systems. The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) mandates that all telephone companies operating private branch exchanges (PBXs) – systems often used within organizations – must implement 711 dialing for TRS. This requirement covers wireline, wireless, and payphone providers. If you’re calling from an office or other location using a PBX, you might need to dial ‘9’ or another prefix before 711 to get an outside line, but the 711 service should still be available. Similarly, providers of interconnected Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services are also required to offer 711 dialing.
It’s important to understand that while 711 provides easy access to TRS for general communication, it should not be used for emergency calls. In an emergency situation, individuals using TTYs or other devices should dial 911 directly. The Americans with Disabilities Act ensures direct and equal access to emergency services for everyone, and dialing 911 directly is the most effective way to reach emergency responders. Do not use 711 to connect to emergency services.
Furthermore, 711 dialing is specifically designed for TTY-based TRS. It does not provide access to all forms of TRS. For services like Video Relay Service (VRS), Internet Protocol Relay (IP Relay), or IP Captioned Telephone Service (IP CTS), you will need to initiate calls differently, typically through the internet or by directly contacting the person you wish to call. A communications assistant will then be automatically connected to facilitate the call. Similarly, Captioned Telephone Service (CTS) may require direct dialing, especially for one-line CTS users who may need to dial a toll-free CTS number first. Two-line CTS users can be called directly.
To delve deeper into the different types of TRS and understand which service best suits your needs, the FCC provides valuable resources. You can explore their consumer guide at www.fcc.gov/guides/telecommunications-relay-service-trs or visit the FCC’s Disability Rights Office website at www.fcc.gov/accessibility for comprehensive information. These resources offer detailed explanations and guidance on utilizing TRS effectively.
In conclusion, 711 serves as a vital and user-friendly telephone number for accessing Telecommunications Relay Services. It simplifies communication for individuals with hearing and speech disabilities, ensuring they can easily connect with others through the telephone system. Remember to use 911 for emergencies and explore the FCC resources to fully understand the range of TRS options available.
