Eagle County offers Text-To-911 – Eagle County accepts SMS (Short Message Service) messages for those in need of help who may find it safer to text than place a call.

Text-To-911 does not replace regular dialing of 911 in an emergency but is meant to provide an extra level of contact in the situation when it may not be safe to call. 

What you should know before sending a text message to 911

• Only text when you are unable to call.  Calling 911 is the preferred contact method and ensures the best level of service to callers. 

• Text-To-911 will only work for select 911 communication centers that have elected, setup, and are designed to handle SMS messages. 

• If you send a message to a center that is not setup to receive SMS, you will get a message advising that the call center you are near is not unable to receive these messages. 

• Picture and video messaging to 911 are not available within in Colorado. 

When you send a text to 911

• Be prepared to provide an address or location.  This is one of the most important pieces of information to any 911 call center.  

• Don’t be surprised if your call is best handled with a voice conversation and you receive a message back prompting you to call 911. 

Nearly 400,000 wireless calls are made each day making it important that you have the ability to contact emergency help when needed.  

Text-To-91 1 also is beneficial for those who are speaking or hearing impaired and may be better served by the ability to text or message.