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Call if you can, text if you can't

(Press release provided by RiverCom 911)

RiverCom 911, along with its partner law, fire and emergency responder agencies in Chelan and Douglas counties, is pleased to announce Text-to-911 is now available to Chelan and Douglas county residents and visitors.

Beginning Aug. 28, cell phone users are able to send a short message via text message to 911 for emergency help when unable to make a 911 voice call. Text to 911 is intended primarily for use in four emergency scenarios:

1. People who are hearing impaired who need emergency assistance.
2. People unable to make a voice call due to a medical emergency that renders the person incapable of speech.
3. People in situations where speaking would put them in further danger, such as reporting an in-progress home invasion, robbery or domestic violence incident.
4. People in areas with poor cell coverage where a voice call may not connect but a text message can be sent.

“Text-to-911 is another layer of protection for our valued residents and visitors in Chelan and Douglas Counties,” said Doug Jones, executive director of RiverCom. “Though you should always call 911 when you can, knowing you can text in certain situations and get immediate assistance is reassuring and potentially lifesaving. “

Texting 911 can be done by typing “911” in the field for a phone number. No other numbers need to be used. Texting should be done through your wireless phones text messaging service and not from a third-party texting application.

Callers texting to 911 should follow these guidelines:

  • Provide your exact address or location.
  • Explain the type of emergency or help that is being requested.
  • Be prepared to answer any questions that the 911 telecommunicator texts back.
  • Use plain language; do not use abbreviations, symbols, emoticons or photos.
  • Messages should be as brief and concise as possible.

Last Updated: 09/18/2023 01:10 PM

Chelan County Calendar

Upcoming events and schedules at the county!

  • 18
    Dec 2024
    01:00 PM - 03:00 PM

    Hearing Examiner - December 18, 2024

    Posted by: Community Development

    By Zoom Video Conference or in person
  • 18
    Dec 2024
    06:00 PM - 09:00 PM

    Planning Commission - December 18, 2024

    Posted by: Community Development

    400 Douglas Street
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    Dec 2024
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    Chelan County Civil Service Commission

    Posted by: Human Resources

    The Chelan County Civil Service Commission will be meeting on December 11, 2024.

    Chelan County Commissioners Office, CM Conference Room 1
  • 04
    Dec 2024
    09:00 AM - 11:00 AM

    Hearing Examiner - December 4, 2024

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    Nov 2024
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    Public Meeting: Public Canvassing Board Meetings

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    The Canvassing Board of Chelan County, pursuant to RCW 29A.60.160, will hold public meetings at the dates and times listed below. The meetings of the Canvassing Board are open, public meetings under the applicable provisions of chapter 42.30 RCW, and each meeting shall be continued until the activity for which the meeting is held has been completed.

    Chelan County Auditor’s Office