What's Happening in Hollywood, FL…

The Broward County Commission has invested over $350m to enhance the Regional 911 system, which includes allowing people to text for help in an emergency.

Mark Bogen, the mayor of Broward County, which includes Hollywood, said the new technology would benefit speech impaired, hard of hearing, or deaf community members by giving them an effective and efficient way to ask for help in emergencies. However, he stressed that residents are still encouraged to call 911, rather than text, unless they are caught in situations where making a phone call would place them in danger. This could include domestic violence situations, a home invasion, or an active shooter.

System operators had some tips for users to consider before they send a text, such as:

• If they are able to call, they should; texting is to be done only if it's impossible to make a phone call
• Give the exact location;
• Make sure the text is short and simple;
• Don't send emojis, videos, pictures, or use abbreviations
• Avoid slang
• Be prepared to stay with the connection and answer texts until the conversation is over

Michael Udine, the Broward County Commissioner, echoed the mayor's words, saying being able to send texts to 911 will help people who could find themselves in danger trying to make contact by phone. The service put emergency assistance within reach of more people, particularly those with speech or hearing disabilities. Officials could use flyer printing to get this type of information widely disseminated.