County launches Text-to-911 service

In an important upgrade to public safety, the Madison County Emergency Communications Center (ECC) launched "Texty," a Text-to-911 service that enables residents to text 911 for emergency help. The innovative enhancement brings increased accessibility to emergency response — especially vital for individuals who are deaf, hard-of-hearing, speech-impaired, or in situations where making a voice call is unsafe.
“I couldn’t be prouder of Wendy and our team at 911 and the role they play in public safety and getting the right responders to the right locations. Keeping our community safe and ensuring we have the technology and resources to do that is critical. Text to 911 is just another tool we have to ensure the health and safety of Madison County,” Madison County Judge/Executive Reagan Taylor said.
“Our consolidated dispatch center already provides state-of-the-art support to all public safety agencies in Madison County,” ECC Director Wendy Lynch added. “Now, with Texty, we are taking a major step toward inclusivity and safety—ensuring help is always within reach, even when voice calls aren’t possible.”
Key features of Texty include:
• Alternative access to help: Users can text “911” (no dashes) with their location and brief description of the emergency when calling is not an option. Responders can then reply by text to gather additional details.
• Designed for safety: Perfect for medical emergencies, domestic situations, active threats, or any circumstance where speaking aloud might escalate danger.
• Enhanced inclusivity: Supports individuals with hearing or speech disabilities, aligning with the goals of Next-Generation 911 initiatives to offer modern communication options.
How It Works:
1. Text “911” – Open your phone’s texting app and enter “911” as the recipient.
2. Provide location + brief description – For example: “House fire, 123 Main St.”
3. Stay available – ECC may respond via text for follow-up questions.
4. Wait for help – Responders are dispatched based on the details provided.
Official Guidance:
• Always call 911 first if it's safe and possible.
• Use Texty only when voice calling isn’t an option—for instance, if you're hearing- or speech-impaired, have a medical condition, or are in a situation where speaking aloud could be dangerous.
Text-2-911 services are part of the nationwide Next-Generation 911 (NG911) effort to modernize emergency communications—enabling text, video, and data transmission to 911 centers.