Pacific County Communications has begun accepting Text-to-9-1-1 service. Verizon, AT&T, Sprint, T-Mobile, and United States Cellular wireless customers in the Pacific County area can now send a text message to 9-1-1 in an emergency.

Texting to 9-1-1 is a new, important service. It is intended to benefit people that may not be able to speak due to an emergency such as a home invasion, or abusive partner, as well as individuals that are deaf, hard of hearing, or have speech disabilities.

Pacific County began the process to launch Text-to-9-1-1 service in June of this year and completed the effort early in October.

· When texting to 9-1-1 for an emergency the first message should be the location of the emergency (including city) and the type of emergency help needed (police, fire, or medical).

· Keep text messages brief and concise; using full words.

· Stay with your phone, be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker.

Pacific County joins Kitsap, Snohomish and Spokane Counties in launching Text-to 9-1-1. Remember that Text-to-9-1-1 service is not yet available state-wide. In addition, in testing the service, it has been noted that not every cellphone is compatible with Text-to-9-1-1.