A new emergency communication option could make a critical difference when calling isn’t safe or possible.
For years, the message surrounding 911 has been simple: If you are experiencing an emergency, call 911.
But what happens when you can’t safely speak?
What if calling could put you or someone else in greater danger?
What if you are deaf or hard of hearing, have a speech disability, are unable to speak because of an injury, or are in a situation where staying silent is critical?
For residents and visitors in St. Louis County, Missouri, there is now another option:
Text-to-911
St. Louis County launched its Text-to-911 service on June 17, 2025, giving people the ability to send an emergency text message directly to 911.
The service is available through the county’s dispatch system, with all 12 county dispatch centers able to receive 911 texts.
Texting 911 may seem like something that should have always been possible.
It wasn’t.
Text-to-911 has been gradually introduced across the United States as emergency communication systems evolve.
That means a person who once had only one practical way to reach emergency dispatch—speaking on the phone—now has an additional communication tool.
And in certain emergencies, that difference matters.
Knowing that 911 can now be reached by text in St. Louis County gives families one more tool to teach children and caregivers about emergency safety.
How to Text 911
If you are in St. Louis County and need to use Text-to-911:
1. Open your phone’s text messaging app.
2. Enter 911 in the recipient field.
3. Send your emergency message.
Your first message should include the most important information:
WHERE ARE YOU?
Give your address, apartment or unit number if applicable, or the nearest identifiable location.
WHAT IS HAPPENING?
Explain whether you need police, fire or medical assistance.
WHAT ELSE DOES THE DISPATCHER NEED TO KNOW?
Include important information such as injuries, weapons, suspects or other immediate dangers.
Example:
123 Main Street, St. Louis County. I need police. Someone is inside my home. I cannot speak safely.
Then wait for the dispatcher to respond and follow their instructions.
Keep Your Messages Simple
Emergency texting is different from texting friends and family.
St. Louis County advises people to keep messages brief, clear and direct.
Do not use slang or unnecessary abbreviations.
Do not send photos, videos, emojis or group texts to 911.
LOCATION + EMERGENCY + IMPORTANT DETAILS
The dispatcher may ask follow-up questions. Continue responding until the dispatcher tells you that communication is complete.
Calling Is Still the Preferred Option
The arrival of Text-to-911 does not mean people should stop calling 911.
St. Louis County officials reported that an average 911 voice call takes approximately two minutes, while an average text interaction takes approximately six minutes.
That’s why the message is simple:
CALL WHEN YOU CAN.
TEXT WHEN YOU CAN’T.
