A 9-1-1 feature that’s been available in Hall County for several years is now operational in Lumpkin County.
It allows anyone with a text-capable cell phone to send an emergency message to 9-1-1 should that person be in a situation where they need to be quiet such as an active shooter.
A spokeswoman for Hall County, Joy Holmes, said Wednesday Text-to-9-1-1 was implemented here in 2020.
“Text-to-9-1-1 will provide quicker access to emergency services for the deaf, hard of hearing and speech disabled residents of Hall County,” a county official said at the time.
To text 9-1-1, simply send a text to the number 9-1-1, just as one would when placing a phone call.
There are many situations where Text-to-9-1-1 can be more effective than calling 9-1-1, he added, such as during an abduction, home invasion, domestic situation and in the instance where a cell call cannot be delivered but a text can.
“Text-to-9-1-1 will also accommodate the younger generation, who consistently use text messaging instead of a phone call to communicate.”
But, again, despite it’s availability, first responders agree that under normal conditions you should still call for help instead of texting.