Technology does it again

     Chester County has caught onto the technology and text-messaging buzz of today’s world with arguably one of the most important phone numbers out there: 9-1-1. Implementation of text-messaging to contact  the Department of Emergency Services just recently began this fall, according to IN Community Magazines. We are the first County in Southeastern PA to create this Text to 9-1-1 option.

     This new option is a part of a wider national initiative called Next Generation 9-1-1. Since a majority of 9-1-1 phone calls come from cell phones, this initiative allows the Department to meet the needs and trends of the public. This service is specifically beneficial to those with hearing and speech impairments, and those individuals who may potentially be in a harmful situation where texting would serve as a safer option.

     The Chester County Commissioners’ Chair still urges individuals to only use this service if they must, and that calling should still be the preferred option. It also should be noted that texting 9-1-1 could take longer to process than calling. In order to use this option, you will need to use: a data plan with texting, clear phrases with no abbreviations, short and succint answers to questions from the responder, and to call 9-1-1 if the situation changes and alert the responder. Lastly, as a reminder, remember never to text and drive.