Emergency Communication & Notifications

New Braunfels Police Department dispatch

About

The New Braunfels Police Department wants every resident to feel informed and prepared during emergencies. This page provides guidance on how and when to contact 911, how to use Text to 911, and how to sign up for emergency notifications to receive alerts directly to your phone.

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When to Call 911

Calling 911 can save valuable time during an emergency. However, it’s essential only to use 911 when immediate help is needed. Stay calm and speak clearly. Say what is wrong and what kind of help you need. Tell the 911 operator where the emergency is. Give your name and number, or remain anonymous. Follow the operator's instructions and stay on the line until you are told to hang up.

Call 911 If:

  • You witness or are involved in a crime in progress
  • There is a serious accident or medical emergency
  • You see fire or smell smoke
  • Someone is in danger and needs urgent help

Do Not Call 911 For:

  • Barking dogs
  • Power outages
  • Traffic or road condition updates
  • Directions or general questions

Misusing 911 ties up phone lines and delays response times for those facing real emergencies.

Silent or Abusive 911 Calls Are Illegal

Help us keep emergency lines open for those who need them most. Under Texas Penal Code Section 42.061, it is a Class B Misdemeanor to:

  • Call 911 and intentionally remain silent
  • Make abusive or harassing statements to a dispatcher
  • Knowingly allow someone else to misuse your phone in this way

Text 911

In an emergency, calling 911 is always preferred. But if you're unable to speak — or are deaf, hard-of-hearing, or speech disabled — you can send a text message to 911 instead. Only use Text to 911 when speaking is unsafe or impossible.

Available Counties

  • Bexar
  • Comal
  • Guadalupe

Please note: Not all Texas cities or carriers offer this service. When possible, a voice call is still the best way to reach help.

Supported Carriers

  • AT&T
  • Sprint
  • T-Mobile
  • Verizon

Tips for texting 911:

  • Start with your location and what help you need
  • Use plain language — no abbreviations or slang
  • Stay calm and respond to the dispatcher’s questions

False or prank texts to 911 are crimes and will be prosecuted.