Texts to alert HK emergencies

Only those who register for the service will be able to use it

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.

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.

That system will continue to run in parallel to the new service.

But the BBC's Chris Hogg in Hong Kong says that in a place where there are more mobile phone subscribers than there are people, texting for help is likely to prove popular.

Immediate access

In Hong Kong in an emergency, you dial 999 to summon assistance.

But for those who find it hard to talk on the phone this may not be an option.

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 .

However, anyone who has not registered will be rejected by the system.