The Next Generation 911 system allows citizens of Washington County to text 911. This new technology will allow dispatchers to receive text messages, pictures, and videos from mobile devices. Dispatchers can also respond to the mobile device via text. With this new technology, dispatchers are able to pinpoint the location of the mobile device that is used to call or text 911.

This is useful for the deaf, hard of hearing, speech disabled or for the safety of the person texting 911. Even though citizens are able to text into 911, it is always recommended to call 911.