A trial scheme by mobile technology company 2ergo could lead to 999 calls across the UK being augmented by text messaging. 2ergo has been working with Lancashire Fire and Rescue Service, enabling members of the public with hearing or speech impairments to send a text message stating ‘Fire’ or ‘Police’. The message is then converted to an email and delivered to the emergency control centre, with the emergency operator able to respond by text. LFRS says the scheme currently receives two genuine emergency text messages a month, which has encouraged 2ergo to work with other regional fire and police services. [Press release; PDF leaflet]