999 text service for deaf and speech impaired people

A new pilot emergency text service being introduced throughout the UK has been welcomed in Dorset.

The service begins today – Monday, 14 September – and is specifically for the use of the deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired.

It means that members of the public who are registered to use the service and are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment will be able to send a text message to 999 in an emergency situation. 

The call operator will respond by calling for appropriate assistance to respond from any of the emergency services, including police, fire, ambulance and coastguard.

In Dorset, deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired people will also be able to continue using the 80999 text service throughout the duration of the pilot – which is due to finish at the end of November 2009.  

 How to register for the 999 text service:

•             Text the word ‘register’ to 999. Then follow the instructions you receive.

•             You can also register online at: www.emergencysms.org.uk.

Important points about the service:

The 999, and 80999, service is provided as a specific access service for people who cannot use voice telephony and is not an additional service for general contact. Voice contact to the 999 service in an emergency situation remains the method of contact for those able to access it.

Dorset Police will take action against any individuals who misuse the 999 or 80999 service.

Dorset Police cannot be held responsible for delays in receiving messages. A person using the service will know their message has been received only when they receive a reply. Until a reply is received, it is advisable to try other ways to contact the emergency services. As with any text messaging system, no text messages are guaranteed to arrive quickly, and the service relies on the mobile phone companies and the network.

Non-emergency contact information:

The Dorset Police non-emergency text number, for the deaf, hard of hearing or speech impaired is: 07766 425243.

The Dorset Police Link Officers for the Deaf (PLOD) scheme enables officers with British Sign Language, Lip Speaking and Deaf Blind skills to communicate with members of the Deaf community, ensuring equality of access to the police for people who are Deaf, Deafblind, Deafened and Hard of Hearing in Dorset.To contact Police Link Officers for the Deaf (PLOD) email: plod@dorset.pnn.police.uk.

For general enquiries or to report a non-urgent crime, call Dorset Police on 01202 or 01305 22 22 22. Only dial 999 if life is in danger or a crime is in progress.