Centerville Police launch Text-to-911 program

CENTERVILLE — The Centerville Police Department announced on Thursday that its dispatch center can now accept text messages through its 911 system.

Centerville Police Chief Matt Brown said, “Voice 911 calls are still preferred, but texting offers another option for those with hearing impairments or who cannot safely call 911. It is best to remember call when you can, text when you can’t.”

The 911 texting feature is available for anyone who lives within the city limits of Centerville and West Carrollton.

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According to a press release, simply text 911 in the “to” field of a new text message. Include the location and nature of the emergency in the “message” field.

Chief Brown said the texter should expect to answer a few additional questions from the 911 dispatcher.

West Carrollton Fire Chief Chris Barnett said, “I am pleased to know our dispatch center will be using the text-to-911 system. Our hearing and speech-impaired population will greatly benefit from this method of communication,”

The 911 texting program was funded in part by a federal 911 grant. It was awarded as a sub-grant through Montgomery County.

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