Call If you Can, Text If You Can't

LIVINGSTON COUNTY, N.Y. -- The Livingston County Sheriff's department has a new message for those in need of 911 services in their jurisdiction, call if you can, text if you can't.

It's a new service at the Livingston County Emergency Communications network. Sheriff Thomas Dougherty said all four major carriers offer the service to text 911, but it may not be available in all areas.

Here's how it works:

Just type in "911" in the "to" field. Include clear, brief, and exact information on the location and nature of the emergency. Avoid slang and abbreviations for clarity. Then hit send.

Be prepared to answer any questions from the dispatcher.