October 22, 2004
Texts to alert HK emergencies
A new scheme to allow people with disabilities to send a text message to summon help from emergency services is being launched in Hong Kong, according to the BBC.
"It sounds simple but the Hong Kong government says it believes it is the first scheme of its kind in the world.
The system is designed to help those who would have trouble talking to the operator because of difficulties with speech or hearing.
Until now, those who could not use the phone could send a fax to get help. Now, as of Thursday, all they have to do is to register with the authorities.
Then if they are faced with an emergency - a serious illness perhaps, a traffic accident or a fire - they just send a text to a three-digit number requesting help.
The police will then be able to access their details immediately and respond to the call .
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