Bell County Unveils ‘Text-To-911’

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Bell County unveiled its new text-to-911 service.The move comes as many Central Texas areas such as McLennan, Travis, and Williamson Counties have all adopted the live saving features.

I spoke to some people who have mixed reactions.

“Why would you need to text, I think that would delay what’s actually going on,” one resident said.

One woman, a former domestic abuse survivor says its a good idea.

“You can do it in private and you can do it in secret and no one will ever know that you’re in contact with 911,” says Debra Hopkins, a Bell County resident.

Communications Director, Michael Harmon says the service is aimed at people who are hearing impaired, unable to speak, or in crime situations where speaking may give away their locations.

Harmon said the service is easy to use as you just have to text; give your name and location to they can assist faster.

Officials are warning residents that texts are limited to only 160 characters.

— KWKT 44