You Can Now Text 9-1-1 in an Emergency Here in Amarillo and Canyon
From a young age we have always been taught to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. It has been ingrained in our head. Something new has come to Amarillo regarding 9-1-1. Those living in Potter and Randall Counties can now send texts to 9-1-1 in an emergency.
How texting to 9-1-1 works:
- enter the number 9-1-1 in the "TO" field of your text message
- should include a brief description and include the location of the emergency
- include the type of help you need, Police, Fire, or Medical
- Push Send
- Be prepared to answer any texts back from the 9-1-1 operator
- Use simple words, but no slang or abbreviations
- Be brief
When to use text to 9-1-1:
- if you are deaf or hard of hearing, speech impaired, or non-verbal
- if making a voice call could put you in danger
- if you are injured and unable to speak
- in a remote location and can only send text messages
Text to 9-1-1 will only work in SMS. You have to have a text or data plan on your service. Do not use the group text feature or it will not go through.
This is a 9-1-1 service and should only be used in an emergency. This service is currently available in Amarillo and Canyon. Other counties in the Texas Panhandle will start to be able to use Text to 9-1-1 in early 2017.
Potter Randall 9-1-1 still suggests you call 9-1-1 in an emergency but when you can't, text is now available.