Text-to-9-1-1 not yet available in Adams County

Washington state announced that it has recently begun phasing in Text-to-9-1-1 service. However, Adams County is not accepting text messages to 9-1-1 at this time.

As the primary Public Safety Answering Point (PSAP) for all of Adams County, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office is committed to providing the highest degree of professional service to the communities and agencies they serve.

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office has a strategic plan going forward to continue measured upgrades to the rapidly evolving technology necessary for transition into Text-to-9-1-1 and Next Generation 911 along with the majority of agencies in the state.

When the transition to Text-to-9-1-1 availability becomes imminent more information regarding these programs will be available.

Text-to-9-1-1 is available in some parts of Washington and there are a few things to be understood about how it works.

Texting to 9-1-1 is intended to benefit people that may not be able to speak in an emergency. The key thing to remember is “Call if you can, text if you can’t”.

When texting to 9-1-1 for an emergency the first message should be the location of the emergency, including city, and the type of emergency help needed.

Text messages should always be kept brief and concise, using full words.

The contact should always stay with the phone, be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker.

Also, at this time, photos and videos cannot be sent to 9-1-1.

Remember that Text-to-9-1-1 service is not yet available in Adams County.

Texts sent to 9-1-1 in an area without Text–to–9-1-1 services will result in the sender receiving a message saying the service is not yet available. If the message is not received or there is not a return reply, call 911 immediately.

For any questions regarding E911 services or to schedule a meeting/class with the Adams County Sheriff’s Office 911 Public Educators, contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 659-1122 or by email at [email protected]