Option to text 911 available in Kent County

(KENT COUNTY, Mich.) The option to text 911 is now available in Kent County.

“The ability to reach 911 in the event of an emergency is critically important,” said Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young. “The text to 911 service is a great resource that we’ve added to better serve the citizens of Kent County by ensuring direct access when voice communication is not possible.”

Law enforcement officials say all you have to do is enter 911 in the “TO” field of the text.

It’s also important to provide the most accurate location information possible because dispatchers might not be able to see the exact location of where the text is coming from.

Photos and videos will not go through a text to 911.

Using text to 911 can also help in situations where calling isn’t easy or possible.

“Adding text to 911 is important for those who are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech impairments,” said Grand Rapids Police Chief Eric Winstrom. “It is also effective in situations where talking out loud could compromise the caller’s safety such as a domestic violence situation, a home invasion in progress, or someone being held against their will.”

Law enforcement officials say citizens are still encouraged to call 911 rather then text whenever it is possible.