Open Source and Free Software

that will give you an old phone. With no service, you can't call, text or use data but you CAN call 911. Any tower that can see your phone is REQUIRED to complete a 911 call. However, if you call, your location is not automatically sent to the 911 so the first thing you should provide is your location even if they ask "What is the nature of your emergency?". If you lose the connection, they cannot call you back so it is better to give your address before saying you have a fire e.g. because knowing your location means they can always send an officer to check. Knowing it is a fire without having a location tells them nothing.

There are very inexpensive pre-paid or pay/month plans available from the lesser known providers such as Mint, etc.

Your $11 a month home service can even be cheaper. I only pay the government fees and taxes (about $6/month) and I do not qualify for any special rates. That's the standard rate for internet phone service from my provider.