Emergency operators can now receive 911 texts in cases where being overheard could be dangerous or if the caller has hearing or speech impairments.

Officials recently announced the service’s launch, saying the system supported texts from customers of carriers AT&T, Verizon, Sprint and T-Mobile.

“The technology creates opportunity for those with hearing or speech impairments and allows people in dangerous situations to call for help without being heard,” Warren Lee, director of New Hanover County Emergency Management and 911 Communications, said in a news release.

County officials pointed out that calling 9-1-1 was still a more efficient and quicker way to report an emergency. Texting takes longer than a typical conversation and should only be used if a phone call isn’t possible, the release stated.

According to the release, tips for using the system are:
• Enter the numbers “911” in the “To” field;
• The first text message to 9-1-1 should be brief and contain the location of the emergency and type of help needed;
• Push the “Send” button.
• Be prepared to answer questions and follow instructions from the 9-1-1 call taker.
• Text in simple words without using abbreviations; keep text messages brief and concise.