City of Wheaton, IL
Wheaton Residents Can Now Text-to-911 in an Emergency
The City of Wheaton has added the ability for anyone in Wheaton to contact 9-1-1 dispatchers by text message in an emergency when calling is not possible.
Text-to-911 technology can make contacting emergency services accessible for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, and it can assist individuals experiencing a medical emergency that affects their ability to speak. It can also be used in circumstances where calling may put someone in danger, such as a domestic violence situation or if someone is hiding.
Texting to 9-1-1 should only be used when calling is not safe or possible. Calling is still best, as 9-1-1 dispatchers can get answers from callers more quickly and direct the appropriate resources to their location. Dispatchers can also listen for background information or cues that can assist first responders.
Text-to-911 works on cell phones, tablets and other devices with the capability of sending texts using AT&T, Verizon, and T-Mobile.
The launch of Text-to-911 is a collaborative effort among safety agencies in DuPage County. The City of Wheaton uses a shared emergency dispatch center, DU-COMM, that serves numerous municipalities in DuPage County. Calls to 9-1-1 in Wheaton go to DU-COMM, which will dispatch police, fire and/or emergency medical services in coordination with the Wheaton Fire Department and Wheaton Police Department.
To learn more about DuPage County Text-to-911, visit https://www.dupagecounty.gov/government/departments/etsb/text_to_911.php