In the United States, the Federal Communications Commission requires all cell phones to retain the ability to dial 911, even if the phone does not have service. Free 911 services are available on analog and digital phones.
Features
When a phone does not have active service, functions like the calendar and contacts will still work. In order to make a 911 call, simply dial 911 as you normally would.
Benefits
Many consumers keep a cell phone for emergency use only, paying expensive activation fees in addition to monthly bills. By keeping an old cell phone for emergency use only, infrequent cell phone users can save on monthly cell phone fees.
Considerations
Even if a cell phone does not have service, you may be able to dial 0 for an operator and place calls that are billed directly to your credit card. While this can get costly, it is still cheaper than entering a cell phone contract.
GPS Location
Many newer cell phones offer GPS services that allow 911 operators to pinpoint your location. If a phone has this option, it will keep working, even if the phone does not have service.
Warning
Even if a phone does not have a number or service contract, it can still be traced by 911 operators. Do not make unintended calls to 911 using a phone without active service.
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