You can now text 911 in two DeKalb cities

Cobb County residents can now send text messages to 911 for help.All major carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, have completed integration for the Cobb County Text to 911 system and the feature is now available to majority of wireless customers in the county. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION by KENT D. JOHNSON/KDJOHNSON@AJC.COM

Cobb County residents can now send text messages to 911 for help.All major carriers, including Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile, have completed integration for the Cobb County Text to 911 system and the feature is now available to majority of wireless customers in the county. PHOTO ILLUSTRATION by KENT D. JOHNSON/KDJOHNSON@AJC.COM

Beginning today, residents in Dunwoody and Brookhaven can text 911.

“Voice calls remain the best method for calling 911 during an emergency, as we are able to ask vital questions more quickly,” said Stephen Pierce, deputy director of operations at 911 service provider ChatComm. "However, if a caller has a hearing or speech impediment or is in a dangerous situation where placing a verbal call could enhance that risk, Text to 9-1-1 can be a lifesaving option.”

There was no added cost for participating cities, which also include Sandy Springs and Johns Creek, for the additional service.

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