Moberly 911 can now be sent text messages

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

People who need first responders for an emergency in Randolph County can now send a text message to 911, according to a Wednesday press release from Moberly Joint Communications.

"’Call if you can, text if you must’ is the golden rule when contacting emergency services,” 911 Director Shelby Creed was quoted in the release. “We still prefer a voice call as the fastest way to get help because our dispatchers can quickly ask important questions. Remember, Text2911 is strictly for emergency use only.”

The release says those needing assistance just need to type “911” in the recipient field while sending a text message. The message should include “a clear message that includes the exact location and the type of emergency.”

The system used, Text2911, can also translate more than 100 languages.