“We’re not advocating it replace it. Any time you can call, it’s preferred over the text method,” Evers said. “There are going to be circumstances that present themselves when texting is the only option.”
The system has been tested and is operational, Evers said, although the department has not yet received a text from a citizen.
The Beavercreek service is available to Verizon, AT&T, Cricket, Sprint and T-Mobile data plan customers. Customers outside the jurisdiction of Beavercreek police who text 911 will receive an automatic reply message directing them to call 911.
Evers said the system is not yet accurate enough to guarantee texters will be located, meaning the user must still provide dispatchers an address or location.
The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office Regional Dispatch Center is already capable of receiving text messages to 911. In 2015, the office announced the service was available within the 16 jurisdictions served by the county center. The service was promoted as a way for hearing or speech impaired persons, or victims of domestic crimes or crimes in progress, to communicate directly with the dispatch.
Butler County additionally allows text-to-911 services.
Evers said Beavercreek’s text-to-911 expansion was a feature of the new 911 system the city purchased last year. Funding for the system, which cost around $140,000, came in part through the 911 surcharge applied to cell phone bills, Evers said.
LOCAL COVERAGE
The Dayton Daily News covers Greene County and brings you local stories you can use, like this one about Beavercreek adopting a new text-to-911 service.
Tips for texting 911
Beavercreek police Chief Dennis Evers said citizens should remember these tips when texting 911:
- Text 911 only when you cannot call. Never text as a replacement for calling 911
- Keep messages short to prevent your cell phone carrier from breaking them up
- Describe the situation and state your location
- Spell out words and avoid slang and emojis
- Stay engaged with the dispatcher after sending the first message
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