Christian County residents will soon be able to send a text to 911 in the event of an emergency.
ECC will use a platform called INdigital to begin rolling out a system Monday where all 911 hang-up calls to dispatch will be returned first with a text message.
Full implementation will begin September 1, when cell phone users will be able to send a text to 911 in emergency situations where calling isn’t safe or possible. Those would include facing a threatening situation when a voice call could increase the threat.
It could also be when a caller is injured or suffered a medical condition and cannot speak or when one is in a remote location and only a text can get through.
The text service is also advised if phone lines and cell phone towers are overwhelmed and only a text can get through.
The first text to 911 should be brief and include the location of the emergency and ECC won’t be able to receive photos or videos. The texter should be prepared to receive a reply from a dispatcher and to relay additional information and follow instructions.