FINDLAY, Ohio — Neighbors in Findlay now have a new tool to help keep themselves and their loved ones safe.
The city of Findlay now has the capabilities to support "Text to 911" services at their 911 dispatch centers.
Findlay mayor Christina Muryn said the installation of the program did not cost the city any additional funding, and the software was easily implemented into their current dispatch system.
The program is from the Federal Communication Commission (FCC), and is supported by all cell phone carriers.
The service only works with text messaging apps though, not other apps that have their own messaging services like Facebook or Twitter.
So now, anyone within Findlay city limits can contact 911 from their phone, even if their phone is not on an active cell phone plan.
Mayor Muryn said this additional service is important to offer for people who are hearing impaired, are unable to speak after an accident, and can even be another option for people who are in the middle of a domestic violence situation.
"You know, we've all heard of situations where you're not able to speak, or its going to draw attention to yourself and potentially put yourself in more danger. So, it's a good being able to have that ability to quickly text," Muryn said.