OPCD Says 911 Text Service Is Vital Though Not Often Used

Smartphone Call to 911 — Photo: Kativ / E+ / Getty Images

The Orleans Parish Communications District says the 911 text line for New Orleans is a lifesaver, even though it's not used very much.

The agency says it's received fewer than 2,000 911 texts over the past year, averaging just over five a day. That compares to more than 1,200 911 phone calls a day, or more than 450,000 in the past year.

A spokesman says they prefer calls over texts because they enable a faster exchange of information. But texts are available for people who can't hear, or don't want to be heard.