Technological advancements are great. The remote control, the elevator and the microwave are all things that make our lives a little easier. Of course, improvements in technology aren’t just about convenience. The can also keep us safer.
Most of us wouldn’t dream of buying a car without seatbelts; anti-lock brakes and airbags are now ubiquitous safety features.
Today, the most prevalent safety device of all is the mobile phone. Most people don’t leave home without it and it ensures that help is just a phone call away. Sometimes, though, an emergency phone call isn’t possible. For example, if someone is hiding from an intruder they may not want to give away their location by talking aloud to a rescue dispatcher.
To address this reality, the Raleigh-Wake Emergency Communications Center is now accepting text messages to the familiar 911 emergency phone number. It is still better to call 911 if you are in an emergency because texting takes longer than calling and is less efficient at conveying descriptive information. However, for those who cannot or should not speak, it can be a lifesaver.
For more guidelines on how to use text-to-911 and a list of which carriers are compatible with the service, please visit the City of Raleigh’s website about it.
Be sure to spread the word about this service - it could save a life.