County residents can now text 9-1-1

A system allowing Tulare County residents to text 911 began at 7 a.m. Thursday. The system allow stulare County residents to text 911 instead of calling if they’re unable to do so in the case of an emergency.

The Tulare County Sheriff’s Office has been working with AT&T, Sprint, T-mobile and Verizon to ensure that the new 911 Texting System is available to all county residents regardless of their mobile carrier.

Incoming 911 texts will be answered in the same way 911 calls are currently answered, and will immediately be transferred to the most appropriate first responder agency.

“This new 911 Texting System is another tool in our tool belt, allowing us to reach our residents in need as quickly as possible,” Tulare County Sheriff Mike Boudreaux said. “Depending on the emergency, someone might not be able to make a phone call to first responders. This texting option could be potentially life-saving, and we are proud to be able to provide this resource to our residents.”

Proven effective throughout the U.S., this 911 Texting System is a resource to have when cell phones are available, but speaking on the phone isn’t an option or could put the caller in danger. The Association of Public Safety Communications Officials (APCO) notes text-to-911 is an added resource for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or have speech disabilities. However, residents are reminded to call, rather than text, whenever possible to ensure critical information can be relayed in the most efficient way possible.

When texting to 911, callers are also asked to use plain English, as an emoji could be blocked and short expressions, such as OMG for “oh my God,” aren’t always universally understood. When texting 911, make sure to include your location and your emergency or need in the initial text. This will allow for the Emergency Dispatcher to get the right help to one faster.