Emergency-only cell service
I came across an interesting web site today that offers a cell phone with emergency-only service for a one-time fee. It’s called emergencycellphones.com. I don’t know anything about the company other than what the web page mentions (although I did look them up on the BBB’s web site) but it sounds like a good idea if, indeed, the only reason someone wants a cell phone is for true emergencies. I’m a little bothered by one of the photos on the site that shows a lady using a cell phone next to a broken-down car, because that’s not something to call 9-1-1 about. But, the site does also mention that sometimes you can use the phone to make collect & credit card calls as well — that’s just not guaranteed. Does anyone have any experience with this type of cell phone service?
Edited to add:
Thanks to those who responded — apparently you can do this same thing with any cell phone that you’re no longer using, without having to buy a special cell just for 911 calls and without having to have it setup.
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February 21st, 2007 at 7:18 am
Any deactivated cell phone by law must be able to dial 9-1-1, even if it doesn’t have service. I’d say test it with any of your old cell phones, but I’d be cautious about calling 9-1-1 when you don’t need to…
February 21st, 2007 at 8:26 am
I’m pretty sure Clever Dude is right – 911 is always a free call, even if you don’t have a cell phone plan. All you need is a phone with a charged battery. So pretty much these people are selling a $50 phone, just like any other phone with no contract. There are various programs out there that ask people to donate their old phones with chargers, which are then given to victims of domestic violence so that they can place a 911 call if necessary. Anyone who is getting rid of their phone should consider donating.
February 21st, 2007 at 3:59 pm
Thanks for the info guys, I’ve edited my post to reflect it.
December 14th, 2009 at 5:04 pm
I’ve learned that if you travel, any call to 911 on your cell phone will be routed to the tower where your phone was activated in and not the tower where you are. If a phone is not activated through a provider, where would the 911 call go?
December 14th, 2009 at 5:07 pm
Linda, that’s a good question. I wonder if one of the phone companies would have the answer. In theory you’d think it would go to the nearest tower, but I don’t know that for sure.