You can now text 911 messages to San Mateo County Law Enforcement and fire agencies' emergency dispatch centers.

The countywide Text to 911 service is aims to help those who can't communicate verbally contact local public agencies, according to an Atherton Police Department press release.

"This technology directly benefits members of our deaf, hard of hearing and speech-impaired communities as they will now have a more efficient and effective way to request emergency services in times of need," the release states.

Others should only use the Text to 911 feature when speaking to an emergency dispatcher is not possible or they may put them at risk. Domestic abuse or an active shooter situation are two examples of when it is appropriate to use the Text to 911 service, according to the release.

Here are some tips from the Atherton Police on using the Text to 911 service:

• Provide the exact location of the emergency

• Keep text messages brief and easy to understand

• Do not use abbreviations, emojis or slang

• Be aware that the ability to send or receive images and videos may be limited and depends on the cellular provider

• 911 texts can only be received in English now the service will be available in more languages in the near future

To send text messages to 911, phones or devices must include a text or data plan, able to text and have location services enabled.

For more information, go to CMASMC.com.

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