Kitsap County residents now can text 9-1-1 in the case of an emergency.

The new service, called Text-to-911 rolled out today, allowing cell phone users in Kitsap County to text local emergency dispatchers in order to request emergency assistance.

The service is only available in Kitsap.

If a cell phone user sends a text to 911 while in a city/county without the Text-to-911 service, the sender should receive a message stating there is no text service to 911 available with the advice to make a voice call.

“This new technology is not meant to replace the traditional phone call to 911,” said Washington State E911 Coordinator Ziggy Dahl.

“In fact, we still urge those in a crisis to call 9-1-1 and speak with call takers if they have the ability. Text-to-911 is a good alternative for those who are unable to speak during an emergency – something like a home invasion, or domestic violence situation,” Dahl said. “This is also an important tool for those individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or cannot speak.”

The Washington State E911 Coordinator’s Office is working closely with Kitsap County as it becomes the first county in Washington State to offer the Text-to-911 service.

The basics

When texting 9-1-1, it’s important to understand:

• Your first message should contain the location of the emergency (including city) and the type of help needed — if known (police, fire or medical).

• The text messages should be brief and concise, but use full words.

• Stay with your phone, be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 911 call taker.

• Photos and videos cannot be sent to 911 at this time.