While calling 911 in an emergency is always the best option, Door County residents can now text 911 instead.  

The Door County Communications Center (DCCC) along with police, fire and EMS partners announce the Text-to-911 service will go into effect immediately.  Cell phone users are now able to send a text up to 140 characters to 911 when needed.  Officials say that the Text-to-911 service should only be used when placing a call is not possible.

The intention for the service is mainly implemented for those individuals who are hard  of hearing, incapable of speech, have poor coverage or service, or if the person is in imminent danger where a call is not possible.  Chief Deputy Kyle Vesser of Sturgeon Bay says “It does not take the place of 911.”  And “we are not changing anything with the 911 voice call system; we just now have the option to text 911.”

While adding Text-to-911 as an extra layer of protection is a wonderful addition for Door County residents, you should always call 911 when you can in any emergency.  However, knowing that you can text in those situations and receive the same immediate attention that a call does is both reassuring and potentially lifesaving.