The new technology was unveiled last Thursday at the Camden County Communications Center
Texting 911 instead of calling is now possible in Camden County after the county unveiled new technology at its communications center last week.
The Camden County Communications Center has become one of the first 911 call centers in New Jersey to begin accepting text messages. The county is collaborating with New Jersey Office of Emergency Telecommunications Services and wireless telephone providers on the project.
“It is important for the county to utilize the latest tools to insure the safety of our residents,” said Camden County Freeholder Jonathan Young, liaison to the Department of Public Safety. “It was imperative for us to have this ability, in light of the unknown variables that can affect a victim in a multitude of incidences where using a phone is not an option.”
Residents unable to make a phone call in an emergency situation can text 911 and receive follow-up texts from the center. The service is received in the radio room by a public safety telecommunicator and dispatched once contact has been made.
The Camden County Communications Center began using the service in beta format in March. It has fielded more than 100 text messages since that time.
Even with the new technology, the Camden County Department of Public Safety asks residents to make a phone call a priority during an emergency. Residents should only text if unable to speak with a dispatcher.
