Residents across Chesterfield, Wildwood, and Ellisville gained a new safety tool on Monday, July 27: the ability to text 911 when making a voice call isn't safe or possible.

The St. Louis County Police Department announced the service on X on Monday, July 27, noting it helps people in dangerous situations where speaking aloud could put them at risk, people with hearing or speech difficulties, and anyone else unable to make a phone call during an emergency.

A voice call remains the fastest way to reach help.

Texting is the backup.

How to use it: Open a new text message, enter 911 in the "To" field, type your message, and hit send. Include your location, the type of emergency (police, fire, or medical), and key details such as injuries or suspect descriptions.

What not to do: Do not send photos, emojis, videos, or group texts. Keep messages short and clear.

The St. Louis County Police Department provides dispatch services for nearly two dozen municipal police departments across the county, including those in Chesterfield, Wildwood, and Ellisville. That means the text option covers local emergencies whether you're at Chesterfield Central Park, on a Wildwood trail, or anywhere else in the service area.

No registration is required. Save 911 as a text contact and share this information with neighbors, especially anyone with hearing or speech difficulties who may not know this option exists.