Emergency text message

A national emergency text messaging service called emergencySMS is currently being trialled in the UK.

EmergencySMS

EmergencySMS lets people who are deaf, hard of hearing or who have speech difficulties send an SMS text message to the 999 service where it will be passed on to police, fire rescue, ambulance or coastguard services.

Essex Police recommends using the service if you are unable to phone police in an emergency. However to do so, you must have registered your mobile phone beforehand. You can do this at the emergencySMS website.

The service should only be used by people who are unable to contact the emergency services in any other way as it can take longer than more traditional methods.

You can find out how the service works and how to register on the emergencySMS website.

Essex Police service

From January 1, 2011 Essex Police is de-commissioning the emergency text service.

To continue to have access to the emergency services please ensure you have registered with the national emergency text service EmergencySMS.

When your registration is complete please delete the Essex Police number from your mobile phone.

If you have any queries please e-mail qualityofserviceteam@essex.pnn.police.uk