New Mendocino Sheriff service lets you text 9-1-1 in Mendocino County

MENDOCINO CO., 12/14/20 — Most Mendocino County residents have had the experience of trying to make a cell phone call in more rural parts of the county, and encountering only enough of a signal to send a text. In recognition of the remote nature and inconstant communication infrastructure in our region, the Mendocino County Sheriff’s Office has implemented a new program that allows residents to text 9-1-1 if they are unable to make a call during an emergency.

The new service currently is only available in English, and requires a data plan, and cannot be used while roaming. The service is currently unable to accept emojis, photos, or video. “Text to 9-1-1 is designed for hearing or speech impaired members of the community, those in a situation where it is too dangerous to make a voice call to 9-1-1, or those in an area of the county with limited service where a voice call cannot be made, but a text message can be delivered,” according to the MCSO announcement.