The average teenager sends 100 texts a day! They text more than they use email or make phone calls. …Unlike phone calls, text messaging can be quietly carried out under the noses of parents, teachers or other authority figures and, unlike computers, it can be done almost anywhere.
“We’ve kind of hit a tipping point where now teens expect other teens to respond to text messaging and to be available,” Lenhart said. “There is definitely an element of text messaging that fits so seamlessly into their lives.”
How is your program responding to this method of communication? Our websites allow you to collect subscribers phone numbers for the purpose of sending text alerts when a new article is published. You can also send custom texts to your entire subscriber list. Here are five ways you can take advantage of this ability to text your subscribers:
1. Alerts
Similar to the Amber Alert system, you can use your text alert system to spread word of breaking crime quickly to your subscribers. Tell them to keep an eye out for a certain make and model of vehicle involved in a crime. Remind them to call 911 if they see anything or to call your tip-line.
GREEN GROCERY ON FIFTH AVE. ROBBED AT 7PM. BLUE FORD FOCUS LIC. # 5R4678 LAST SEEN SOUTH ON MAIN. CALL 911 OR 678 TIPS IF YOU SEE IT.
2. Warnings
This could be a warning to stay away from a particular part of town for safety reasons, or a simple safety tip. On St. Patrick’s Day, send a quick message to subscribers reminding them that they can call a cab if they find they’ve had a little too much fun, and end it with a local cab number who gives free rides on holidays.
HAPPY ST. PATTY’S DAY TO YA! IF YOU FIND YOU’VE HAD A LITTLE TOO MUCH FUN TONIGHT, REMEMBER YOU CAN ALWAYS CALL THIS TAXI CAB COMPANY AND THEY’LL TAKE YOU HOME FOR FREE. 555-5555.
3. Volunteer Opportunities
You probably have volunteers manning your phones for some number of hours each day. If one of them gets sick, it can take time to replace them when you have call for a substitute one-by-one. Use your text system to reach your subscribers in one step – one of your trained volunteers is sure to respond to your urgent request.
OH NO! ONE OF OUR AMAZING VOLUNTEERS IS OUT SICK AND WE NEED SOMEONE TO MAKE SURE ANONYMOUS TIPS ARE RECEIVED. IF YOU’RE ONE OF OUR TRAINED VOLUNTEERS, CAN YOU HELP TOMORROW FROM 3-8PM?
4. Fundraising Opportunities
Fast, easy notifications to let people know what you’re doing and how they can help. You can send e-mails, but people tend to forget. Send the above message around 4:30 on the day of the event and you’ll get some hungry diners stopping in to say hi.
OUR BLOCK WATCH IS @ SAM’S DINER ON MAIN ST TONIGHT; 5% OF ALL SALES GO TO US FROM 5 TO 9. COME OUT AND SUPPORT US. YOU NEED TO EAT DINNER ANYWAY.
5. Broadcast
Last, but certainly not least, the broadcast of your recently posted crimes and news. When people subscribe to your service, they’re letting you know that they want to know the second you post some news! So, send it to them!
NEW AT YOURCRIMESITE.COM! John Doe Wanted For Murder (Link)
Melena Brown
I wish that they would make an app for all phones that would automatically text:If you are drivng while reading this text or texting while driving, please stop now!I am in the car in front of you!”
Angie Meeker
I don’t know about that! But there are several apps that will text those who text you while you’re driving that you’re driving and can’t text now. Here’s one: http://www.drivesafe.ly/