System and method for handling special number calls using text message format with automatic location function

A system for treating emergency service calls placed from a calling instrument using a text messaging format;

• the system comprising:
• a plurality of message handling units configured in at least one communication network accessible by said calling instrument;
• at least one selected message handling unit of said plurality of message handling units operating to recognize an extant call placed using an emergency service number from said calling instrument in a first said text messaging format;
• said plurality of message handling units cooperating to effect conveying a response communication to said calling instrument when said extant call is detected;
• said response communication alerting a user of said calling instrument to a return communication;
• said plurality of message handling units cooperating to effect conveying said return communication to said calling instrument via a return communication channel supporting at least one locating function;
• and said calling instrument employing said locating function to provide a substantially pinpoint geographic location of said calling instrument to at least one receiving message handling unit of said plurality of message handling units via said return communication channel

A method for treating special number calls placed from a calling instrument using a text messaging format;

• the method comprising:
• (a) providing a plurality of message handling units;
• (b) coupling said plurality of message handling units in at least one communication network accessible by said calling instrument;
• (c) operating at least one selected message handling unit of said plurality of message handling units to recognize an extant call placed using a special number from said calling instrument in a first said text messaging format;
• (d) operating said plurality of message handling units cooperatively to effect conveying a response communication to said calling instrument substantially when said extant call is detected;
• said response communication alerting a user of said calling instrument to a return communication;
• (e) operating said plurality of message handling units cooperatively to effect conveying said return communication to said calling instrument via a return communication channel supporting at least one locating function;
• and
• (f) operating said calling instrument to employ said locating function to provide a substantially pinpoint geographic location of said calling instrument to at least one receiving message handling unit of said plurality of message handling units via said return communication channel.