DATE OF RELEASE: December 1, 2017
The West Covina Police Department is pleased to announce its participation in new technology that permits people to Text 9-1-1 messages in cases of emergencies. Starting today, December 1, 2017, mobile users in Los Angeles County will now have the ability to send text messages to 9-1-1, giving hearing and speech impaired residents, or those in situations where it is too dangerous to dial 9-1-1, a potentially lifesaving option.
"Call if you can -- text if you can't" is the slogan developed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) as the new technology makes its debut in the most populous county in the United States.
"This technology can save lives and meets the needs of a growing population that relies on text messaging as a key form of communication," said Mark Ghilarducci, Director of the California Governor's Office of Emergency Services.
The West Covina Police Department, along with most Los Angeles County dispatch centers, are now equipped to receive and respond to mobile phone SMS Text to 9-1-1 messages. This service is available for everyone, and is especially for use by the deaf, hard of hearing, or speech impaired, and/or in situations where it is too dangerous to make a voice call to 9-1-1.
Remember, it is always best to Call (9-1-1) if you can, but Text if you can’t.
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Information released by:
West Covina Police Department
Public Information Officer Rudy Lopez
1444 West Garvey Avenue
West Covina, CA 91790
626 939-8500
Web: www.wcpd.org
Twitter: www.twitter.com/WestCovinaPD
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WestCovinaPD
Instagram: www.instagram.com/WestCovinaPD
Nixle: Get detailed, up-to-date emails and text messages specific to your community from the West Covina Police Department by registering at https://local.nixle.com/register/.
You can also register for alerts and text messages only by texting your zip code to 888777. Standard text messaging rates may apply depending on your calling plan.
