DEWITT COUNTY, Ill. (WCIA) — Those in emergency situations in DeWitt County are now able to text 911 for first responder help.

In a Facebook post Wednesday morning, DeWitt County CenCom said residents are now able to text for assistance in situations where they are not able to talk freely. CenCom 911 professionals are now ready to answer texts during emergencies.

According to Karen Clevenger, 911 Systems Manager for DeWitt County, the texting program is now registered with the FCC after CenCom was able to do test trials with cell providers such as AT&T, T-Mobile and Verizon. These tests were concluded on Tuesday shortly before the Facebook post was made, Clevenger said.

She also said that they still prefer for people to call 911 as opposed to texting if they are able to. Clevenger said it is more efficient for operators because they are able to talk on the phone and type to gather information simultaneously. However, Clevenger said texting 911 is especially useful for those that are hearing impaired, in loud environments or in situations where talking on the phone would put you in danger.

“Call if you can, text if you can’t,” Clevenger added.

She also noted that 911 operators are still able to get the location of a person in need through text; it will just take a little longer for them to look things up and gather additional details.