Text 911 Service Now Available In Davis, Yolo County

DAVIS, CA — The Davis Police Department announced this week that Text-to-911 service is now available in the city of Davis and throughout Yolo County. Authorities still recommend calling 911 if at all possible, but say in instances when making a voice call may not be an option, those in need of emergency service can instead send a text to 911.

To text 911 in an emergency in Davis or elsewhere in Yolo County, enter the numbers 911 in the "to" field, type a brief message containing the location of the emergency and the type of help needed, then push the "send" button.

Texters should be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 911 dispatcher, Davis police said. Text messages to 911 should not contain emojis, nor should photos or any other attachments be included. Texters should be as clear and concise as possible, using simple words that are not abbreviated and are not slang.

Davis police said Text-to-911 is primarily intended for use in specific emergency situations where verbal communication is not possible, including:

• When an individual is speech or hearing impaired;
• When a person is unable to call 911 due to an emergency that renders them unable to speak;
• In the event of a crime such as a home invasion robbery or abduction where speaking might give away the location of a person hiding; or
• In a domestic violence situation where it’s not safe to make a voice call.

When determining whether to make a voice call or send a text, Davis police said to keep the following in mind:

• Text 911 only when making a voice call is not an option;
• Texting is not always instantaneous - it may take slightly longer to receive emergency services by texting 911;
• Those using the system must have a cellphone that is activated and capable of sending text messages in order to text-to-911;
• There is no charge for sending a 911 text; and
• Do NOT text and drive!

"We encourage anyone who has any further questions to please contact our dispatch center at 530-747-5400," Davis police said. "We would be happy to provide further education on these services including a test scenario from your phone at a scheduled time."

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