TTY telephone for the speechless
Hi, all ... Just a suggestion for those whose speech is going or gone.
I got a loaner TTY telephone from ALSA and have it up and running now. I have really been concerned about what I would do if I had an emergency and had to call 911 for either myself or my husband. Even if they didn't think I was drunk and hang up on me, they would not be able to understand me.
The TTY is used by the deaf. The phone has a keyboard attached and a small horizontal screen to read what you're typing. It's normally a regular phone and simply plugs into a jack (and an electrical outlet), and you can use it like a regular phone. It's a nice looking little gadget, too.
To place or receive a TTY call, you just push a button and it switches over to text. You can dial your number, and then start typing when they pick up.
The other party has to have a TTY phone to receive and respond, but all 911 operators and cops and fire departments (I think) and most "official" places have them.
This takes such a huge load off my mind! It's really simple to use, and just to know that I can reach someone in an emergency is priceless. You can also attach it to a printer if you want a record of the conversation.
Take care, all.