Cobb launches text to 911 service

Wireless customers in Cobb County can now send a short text message to 911 for emergency help when unable to make a 911 voice call, the county announced.

The new service will be available to the majority of wireless customers. All major carriers have completed integration with the Cobb County 911 system, according to the county.

Text to 911 was not developed as a replacement or option to calling 911 in an emergency situation, officials say. Rather, it was created as but rather as an enhancement to reaching 911 services in three specific situations:

  1. The caller is hearing/voice impaired
  2. A medical emergency renders the person incapable of speech
  3. When speaking out loud would put the caller in danger, such as a home invasion, an abduction, a domestic violence incident or an active shooter scenario

“The safety of residents and visitors in Cobb County is our number-one concern,” Ann Flynn, Cobb County 911 Director, said said in a news release. “Text to 911 could be a lifesaver, especially for people who might otherwise not be able to make a voice call.”

Cobb County will receive text to 911 calls from both unincorporated Cobb County and from the cities within Cobb. Information will be relayed to the appropriate city if necessary.

Smyrna 911 has deployed its own text to 911. County officials said they will work with Smyrna to provide seamless police, fire and medical service.