People in central Oklahoma can now send a text message to 911 to request emergency help. The Association of Central Oklahoma Governments (ACOG) recently implemented the Text to 911 service in multiple cities and towns in the state to allow people in emergency situations to text dispatchers for help. The text service does not replace calling 911, but the option is intended for:
- People with speech or hearing disabilities
- Callers who need to remain silent or discreet
- Medical emergencies that render the caller incapable of talking
“To provide the most effective emergency services to our citizens, we must keep pace with changing technology,” said Mark Sweeney, executive director of ACOG. “Texting is one of the primary forms of communication, especially for people with speech and hearing impairments, and the Text to 911 service allows us to reach those people as well as people who may not be able to use traditional 911 services.”
Sending a text to 911 in an emergency is simple and quick. To request help via text, simply send a text to 911 with the location of the emergency. The 911 dispatcher will reply with instructions or questions. Do not text photos, videos, emojis or slang as the service cannot receive them.
Traditional voice calls to 911 are still the fastest and most efficient way to receive emergency help. Texting to 911 should only be used when people are unable to call, so call if you can, text if you can’t.
To view the Text to 911 Coverage Map or to learn more, visit here.