Text To 9-1-1 Now Available In Roswell

ROSWELL, GA — The Roswell Police Department says residents can now send text messages directly to its 9-1-1 call center during an emergency situation. Text-to-911 provides an alternative to calling when it's unsafe for an individual to speak, the agency said.

“If a caller is in a dangerous situation where they are unable to speak, such as an intruder in the home or a domestic violence situation, then Text-to-911 would be an emergency lifeline," said Melissa Alterio, director of the city of Roswell 911 Center. “Speaking to a 911 dispatcher is still the fastest way to receive help to the location so remember to call if you can, text if you can’t.”

The Roswell Police 911 Emergency Communications Division has collaborated with AT&T and West to implement Text-to-911 on Roswell’s Next Generation 911 call handling system. The agency is aware that in an emergency, dialing 9-1-1 may not always be feasible. People with a hearing loss or those who must remain quiet in a dangerous situation may not be able to safely make a phone call. Now they can simply text a message which will be received by our communications center. If there is an emergency and you cannot call 9-1-1, take these steps:

1. Enter the numbers 9-1-1 in the "To" field.
2. Text your exact address and type of emergency.
3. Send the message.
4. Use simple words, but do not include abbreviations, emojis, pictures or slang.
5. Promptly answer questions and follow instructions.

Of course, using a text to 9-1-1 feature comes with challenges. For instance, emergency response may be lengthened due to the time it takes for a text to 9-1-1 to be typed and sent. Delivery of texts and speed of delivery are also not guaranteed. Here are several reminders to ensure the best service and response from dispatchers.

• Dispatchers prefer calls so they can get cues from background noise and voice inflections. If you text 911, dispatchers will ask if they can call you.
• Location is not as accurate with texting as it is with a call. Be sure to text your exact address.
• A text or data plan is required to use Text-to-911.
• Texts to 9-1-1 will get a bounce back message if you are roaming.
• Texts to 9-1-1 have a 160 character limit, can get out of order, or may not be received.
• There is no language translation service for texts to 9-1-1.
• Do not text and drive.

The new service should only be used in emergencies. Texting 9-1-1 with a false report is a crime. If you accidentally send a text to 911, send another text, or call 911 to let the dispatcher know that there is no emergency. Remember: call if you can, text if you can’t.

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