Text 911 available to DeKalb cities

Residents of Brookhaven, Sandy Springs, Johns Creek and Dunwoody can now text 911 if unable to call during an emergency. The texting option is primarily for the hearing impaired and for situations where voice conversation may place callers in further danger. It is not for regular contact with 9-1-1.

An example would be an intruder is inside your home and speaking on the phone may give away your hiding place. When texting 911 a message reply is sent that says “If it is safe to do so, please call 911.”

Texting, while slower than calling, allows the call taker to ask vital questions in order to send help. The address or street intersection needs to be typed and other information may be needed as well. The system cannot receive pictures or video at this time.