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, because voice calls to 911 provide more information to 911 call centers, 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