SOUTHWICK – Starting December 14 the Massachusetts State 911 Department is now allowing people to text 9-1-1 instead of just calling 9-1-1.
According to the State 911 Department, when there’s an emergency citizens can now text “911” in the to or recipient field of the text message, and the message will automatically be sent to the nearest dispatch center. The individual is also asked to include the town name and the address or location of where they are in the body of the text.
With the text to 9-1-1 system using SMS (Short Message Service), people are required to have a text or data plan on their mobile device in order to text. Individuals using the service are also asked to avoid sending multimedia like pictures, video, and emojis, and there is also a 160-character limit.
Southwick Police Department. (WNG File Photo)
Local dispatch centers see the 9-1-1 texting system as a useful tool during an emergency.
“I really think it could be a big benefit, I’m just hoping people don’t abuse it,” said Southwick Dispatcher James Frenette. “I think it will be a good thing in the long run as more and more people go off the hard line.”
Frenette added that the text 9-1-1 system is great for someone who desperately needs it, however, if someone can talk they should call 911 instead.
While the 9-1-1 text system is a great resource for the deaf or hearing impaired, it can also serve a purpose for someone who’s in an accident and can’t talk or a situation where it may not be safe to talk.
“This is now opening it up to anyone. Anyone can text us,” said Frenette.
Prior to the 9-1-1 text system being available for people in Massachusetts, the TTY system, or Text Telephone, allowed the deaf or hearing impaired to connect with one another and also text 9-1-1. However, the new 9-1-1 text system is an upgrade in that it’s available on every smart phone and can be used for anyone that may be in need.
If any Southwick residents have questions or comments about the 9-1-1 text system, contact the Southwick Police Department at 413-569-5348.
