Text-to-911 service now available in Scott County

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

SCOTT COUNTY, Mo., (KBSI) — Residents in Scott County can now send text messages to 911 in an emergency, according to the Scott County 911 Emergency Service Board.

The new service is available through the Sikeston Department of Public Safety Communications Center and Scott City E911, providing coverage across the county.

Officials said text-to-911 should be used in situations where calling is not safe or possible, including when a person cannot speak, is in danger, is hearing or speech impaired, or needs to be discreet.

Authorities emphasized that voice calls remain the fastest and most effective way to reach emergency services.

To use the service, residents should enter “911” in the recipient field, send a brief message including their location and the nature of the emergency, and respond promptly to any follow-up questions from a dispatcher.

Officials said messages should be clear and concise and should not include photos, videos, emojis or group texts. Users are encouraged to stay with their phone and continue communicating with dispatchers until help arrives.

The service is aimed at improving emergency communication and accessibility throughout Scott County, officials said.