MIAMI – A new technology-based way to call for help will launch across Miami-Dade County this weekend.
Sheriff Rosie Cordero-Stutz announced the county’s Text to 911 service Friday afternoon, which allows residents to message their emergencies directly to dispatch.
The program is similar to what the Broward Sheriff’s Office launched a few years ago.
The new advancement is meant for emergencies when speaking could put you in even more danger.
It will begin operation on June 1.
“This advancement reflects our ongoing commitment to making public safety accessible to everyone in our community,” said Cordero-Stutz.
Local 10’s cameras were rolling from inside the Miami-Dade Sheriff’s Office dispatch headquarters to see how the process works.
It starts with a text to 911 from a cell phone, asking for police. That message goes directly to dispatch, where a live dispatcher receives it and sends help.
The service will be rolling out to all seven of Miami-Dade’s 911 call centers.
“This is a vital step forward, especially for individuals who are deaf, hard of hearing or speech disabled, or anyone who may find themselves in a dangerous situation where speaking could put them at risk,” said Cordero-Stutz.
Those dangerous situations can include domestic violence or home invasions.
“In these moments, silence can save lives,” said Cordero-Stutz.
While this service rolls out, calling is still the preferred means of contacting dispatch, but is a “critical alternative,” says the sheriff.
“We want our residents to know help is within reach and now a text away,” she said.
Currently the service is only available in English, but there are plans to roll it out in other languages.