The Williamson County Joint Emergency Telephone System Board announced that text-to-911 services are now accepted.
Text messages with less than 140 characters can now be sent to 911 in an emergency where placing a call is not an option. Texts can be sent if speaking out loud would put the caller in danger, or if they are hard-of-hearing or speech-impaired.
The Williamson County Emergency Board warns that the service requires a data plan to place a text to 911. Texts may also take longer to receive, and might be delivered out of order or fail.
If using the service, text in full, simple words, and be prepared to respond to the 911 operator. Photos and videos can currently not be sent.
Remember to use the service for emergencies only. Abusing 911 is a crime. Voice calls are still the best and fastest way to contact 911.
