Full Notification

The Richmond Police Department Communication Center which provides contract services to the El Cerrito Police Department has a new text to 911 reporting system. Our community now has the ability to report incidents to the Police Department via text message.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the system:

Remember: Call if you can- text if you must.

When should I text 911?
When the safety of yourself or another would be in jeopardy by placing a voice call.
If you are speech or hearing impaired.

How do I text 911?

Put 9-1-1 where you would normally place a number when creating a new text message.
Give the location/address where you need help. This is the most important information.
The dispatcher will ask questions, just like a voice call. Answer the questions as quickly and accurately as possible.

Text-to–911 limitations:

Text-to-911 does not accept picture messages, video messages, or sound bites.
Text-to-911 does not have the ability to utilize a translation service. If you do not speak English, call 911 and a translator will be obtained.

If you have questions about the text to 911 feature, please contact the El Cerrito Police Department at (510) 215-4400 or contact Dispatch Supervisor Deana Norton at [email protected].