It's been over a week since KCBD NewsChannel 11 aired our test of Vonage's 911 service. I should have gotten my own review up sooner, but life got in the way.

I thought I knew exactly what would happen during the test. Vonage’s website made it quite clear that when I dialed 911, my call would be routed to my regional Public Service Assess Point’s seven digit number. The PSAP is Lubbock is the Lubbock Emergency Communication District (LECD), which handles 911. However, because the call is coming in on their seven digit telephone number, and not "911", I would have to provide my address to them, just as you would on a cell phone. This information, it seems, is part of Enhanced 911, or e911, and is only available when someone calls 911 from a traditional telephone line.

The test went very well. Channel 11 had one crew at my house and one down at the LECD. When I called I happened to get the operator who had been mic’d, so I didn’t have to ask to be transferred to her. I announced who I was and that this was a test call. She then proceeded to confirm my address information. That’s right, the information that by all accounts I would have to provide was sitting right there on her screen. Needless to say, I was surprised.

So, 911 using Voice-Over-IP isn't perfect. In most cases, the caller will need the presence of mind to provide their location, if known. Obviously, this isn't ideal for children, or adults who may be partially incapacitated. In Lubbock, though, the service appears to work. Granted, this wasn’t an exhaustive test, but I can sleep a little easier knowing that if I ever need help, all I have to do is dial 911.

Previously: Technology Trips Over 911 Call