The Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff is pleased to announce that the Communications Center (Dispatch) is now able to handle text to 9-1-1 within the Contra Costa County Office of the Sheriff jurisdiction, which covers the unincorporated areas of the county.
During an emergency or life-threatening situation, you should always make a voice call to 9-1-1. However, if you cannot because of hearing or speech impairment, or if you are unable to speak, or in a situation where it is unsafe to speak, you can send a text to 9-1-1.
To send a text to 9-1-1, enter the numbers 911 in the “To” field. The body of the text should include the exact location of the emergency and if you need police, fire or an ambulance. Please answer questions and follow the instructions of the 9-1-1 call-taker. Please keep your texts short and simple with no abbreviations, jargon or slang. Do not send any photos or videos.
Text to 9-1-1 is only available in English and is slower than calling 9-1-1. You must provide the exact location of the emergency. Text to 9-1-1 may not be available in all areas. Remember — Call 9-1-1 if you can, text if you can’t.
