Text to 9-1-1 is a statewide initiative that allows citizens an alternate solution for requesting emergency help. Sumter county is one of the 51 Florida counties that has an operational Text to 9-1-1 system in place. However, you should always make a voice call to 911 during an emergency whenever possible.
Things to remember when using Text to 9-1-1:
> Detailed Location Be as specific as possible as to where you are (including city).
> Nature of Emergency What is happening and whether you need police, fire or medical aid.
> Press the Send button
When should you text to 911?
> Domestic violence situations
> Home invasions
> Abductions
> If unable to speak or hear due to disability or injury
> If a voice call to 911 puts you in a dangerous situation
When should you NOT text to 911?
> A voice call is possible
> As a prank or joke, misuse of 911 is illegal
> To report a non-life threatening situation
> To report a crime tip to the police
> If your phone does not have a data or text plan
Things to know about Text-to-911
> Your location will not be automatically texted to 911
> Text-to-911 messages can take longer to receive, can get out of order or may not be received
> A text or data plan is required to place a text-to-911
> Photos and videos cannot be sent to 911 at this time
> Use plain language, NO abbreviations, shortcuts, slang or emojis
> Text-to-911 cannot include more than one recipient
> Do not set your "SOS" setting on your phone to dial or text 911
> English is the preferred language for text to 911 at this time
> Language interpretation is not available at this time
> Text communication takes longer, therefore it is best to call as long as you are in a safe environment