Parts of Southern Colorado can now text a 911 communications office

Anyone outside the city limits of Pueblo can now directly text a message to the Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office communication center. The new Text-to-911 allows people to text in when there is a weaker cellphone signal in Pueblo County.

The Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office says typically calling is the preferred choice and citizens should call when they can, but there are instances when texting is a better option. The new system can benefit victims in situations where silence is needed for their safety, such as domestic violence or kidnapping.

The new feature comes at the same time of the 50th anniversary the first 911 call was made, on February 16, 1968, in Alabama.

The Pueblo County Sheriff’s Office gives some tips when using the Text-to-911 feature:

Most importantly, individuals are urged to call when they can and text when they must. Texts should be simple and concise and should not include abbreviations Pay close attention to what the 911 operator is asking and answer quickly Individuals will need to provide an address or location early in the exchange Photos and video exchange is not supported by the system

The Text-to-911 service is paid for with the Pueblo County Emergency Telephone Authority surcharge funds.