Residents of Chautauqua County can now use a cell phone app to sign up for enhanced or smart 911.

The county was a pioneer in the system, the first county in New York State to launch smart 911 several years ago.

But signing up on a computer was a bit time consuming and challenging.

Officials think the new app will make it easier to create a profile, giving key information to 911 dispatchers to relay to first responders.

The sheriff hopes the app will mean a lot more people sign up.

Chautauqua County Sheriff Joe Gerace said, "I think it is the accessibility. They are able to do it instantly and that will get more subscribers which helps us help them."

The cell phone app will work anywhere in the country where smart 911 is available.