The Berrien County Administration Center announced last week that Text-to- 911 services are now available to Berrien County and Niles City residents, according to a press release. Anyone with a text or data plan that is provided by a wireless carrier has access to this service and may use it for emergency purposes to contact authorities.

“I think it’s great to have every tool out there that we can,” said Berrien County Sheriff Paul Bailey.

Both Niles City and Berrien County departments are now equipped with the technology. Authorities have been testing the equipment since March. In September, the final provider was brought on-line.

While Bailey strongly advises calling 9-1-1 if possible, the service will allow someone who does not want to be heard to discreetly contact authorities. For example, if someone is experiencing a break in, people can text for help without giving away their location to the robber.

Here are a few critical things to remember if utilizing this service:

•When placing a Text-to-911 including the location of the emergency is crucial.

• All users must stand by to answer follow up questions

• Do not text and drive

• The service requires a text or data plan.

• At this time, photo and video cannot be sent to Text-to-911.

• Group text messages cannot be received by Text-to-911.

• This service is not yet available everywhere in Michigan and the U.S.

• Text-to-911 is for emergencies. Do not abuse this service.

• An auto-reply will be delivered to the phone device if the service is not available and a prompt the use to call 9-1-1

“It’s another item in the tool belt that will help people when they can not speak and do not want to be heard,” Bailey said.

For more information contact Dave Agens, 9-1-1 director at (269) 983-7111, extension 4958.