Last year the University Police Department (UPD) announced a major upgrade to the emergency 911 system, which allows the campus community to dial 911 to reach HSU Police when using a cell phone on campus. UPD has been working with the State of California’s 911 Office of Emergency Services 911 unit and several major cell carriers to acquire the means to enhance the ability of to add the capability for the HSU community to reach 911 through texting via your cell phone. 

Effective immediately, UPD’s 911 center can accept text-to-911 calls from the HSU community. Here is how it works: Text-to-911 is a free program for sending a text message addressed to “911” instead of placing a phone call. To use it, text the message to '911' and enter the emergency in the body of the text, making sure to include your exact location so UPD knows where to send its officers. Since it is all text-based, you will hear a response for more follow-up questions, or when help is on the way.  

Text-to-911 is useful for any situation that is dangerous or when you are unable to talk on the phone. It also allows for improved technology for our deaf and hard of hearing population on campus.

Should you have any questions about this new feature to reach UPD in an emergency, please contact UPD communications supervisor, Angelica Preciado at (707) 826-4661.