Text-to-911 now an option in New Hanover County

NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Beginning today, 911 telecommunicators in New Hanover County can now receive text messages from customers of AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-Mobile.

To text 911 during an emergency, follow these procedures:

-Enter the numbers “911” in the “To” field;
-The first text message to 9-1-1 should be brief and contain the location of the emergency and type of help needed;
-Push the “Send” button.
-Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker.
-Text in simple words – do not use abbreviations.
-Keep text messages brief and concise.

Officials say those contacting 911 through texting should be done only when calling is not an option. Picking up the phone and calling 9-1-1 is still the most efficient way to reach emergency help because texting is not always instantaneous. Customers must be in range of cell towers in New Hanover County. If customers are outside or near the edge of the county, the message may not reach the New Hanover County 911 Center.

“The technology creates opportunity for those with hearing or speech impairments and allows people in dangerous situations to call for help without being heard,” Warren Lee, Director of New Hanover County Emergency Management and 911 Communications said.