OTTAWA -- The Canadian public is being invited to comment on changes for the next generation of 911 phone service for emergencies.

Features under consideration include text messages, photos and videos that can be sent to 911 operators.

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission says it will be accepting comments until May 20.

That will also be the deadline for requests to appear at a five-day public hearing that will begin Jan. 16, 2017.

The CRTC says it will be considering technical requirements and who will pay for the system as well as confidentiality issues.

The commission's website includes links to application forms and information about Next Generation 911 proposals.