Walkers reminded to register for 999 text service

Hillwalkers are being reminded to register for an emergency text service which allows people to text 999 when voice calls cannot be made but there is sufficient signal to send a text. This is often the case on the hills and the system has been used successfully to call out mountain rescue.

Heather Morning, Mountain Safety Advisor at the MCofS, said, “You can contact the 999 emergency services by SMS text from your mobile phone. This is particularly useful for those needing 999 assistance in the hills when mobile reception is poor and there is not enough signal to make a call.”

However you can only use this service if you have registered your phone with Emergency SMS first. The MCofS is urging hill walkers to register now rather than wait for an emergency. To register, text register to 999. You will get a reply and will then need to follow the instructions you are sent. The text system is meant to be used only when voice calls cannot be made and the system does not guarrantee that texts will be delivered so users should wait until they receive a reply from the emergency services before assuming help has been summoned. The system was originally set up to help deaf and hard of hearing people. Further details can be found at the Emergency SMS website.