Emergency Services

Calling 9-1-1

Dial 9-1-1 in an emergency situation when you need immediate help from police, fire or paramedics.

Please Use 9-1-1 Responsibly

9-1-1 is the dedicated number for emergencies and must only be used when there is an immediate threat to people or property. 

9-1-1 call takers and dispatchers are highly trained public safety professionals. They ensure you receive the right help, in the right place, at the right time. Please do not call 9-1-1 to request non-emergency phone numbers.

Call 9-1-1 for emergencies such as:

• Immediate dangers/threats to people or property: fire or smoke, vehicle collisions with injuries, serious medical issues (e.g. chest pain, difficulty breathing, loss of consciousness, stroke or heart attack symptoms), gunshots or stabbings, or carbon monoxide alarm sounding.
• Crimes in progress: assault, impaired driving, break and enters with suspects on scene, robbery or suspicious activity. 

Important reminders:

• If you dial 9-1-1 by mistake, stay on the line and tell the call taker it was accidental. Hanging up may cause emergency responders to waste valuable time trying to confirm your safety.
• Prank calls to 9-1-1 are a criminal offence and can prevent real emergencies from being answered quickly. 

What to Expect When You Call 9-1-1

When you dial 9-1-1, the call-taker will ask: "Do you need police, fire or ambulance?" They may also confirm the municipality you are calling from. You will then be quickly connected to the appropriate agency, often within seconds. Be ready to answer a series of questions so that the right help can be dispatched. 

Key Tips When Calling 9-1-1:

• Know your location. If you're hiking, boating, or in an unfamiliar area, consider downloading the What3Words app to help pinpoint your location.
• Don't pre-program 9-1-1. Accidental calls can tie up critical resources. 
• If you call by mistake, stay on the line. Let the call-taker know it was accidental.
• Answering questions does not delay help. Emergency responders are dispatched while you provide details. 
• Listen carefully and follow any instructions provided to you.
• Stay calm, speak clearly, and remain on the line until told to hang up.

Teach Children How to Use 9-1-1

It is important to teach children how and when to call 9-1-1 - and to remind them that it should never be used as a toy.

• Ensure household cordless phones are kept fully charged and stored in a consistent location.
• Post your home address and phone number near the main phone, and show children where to find it.
• Never give children an old cell phone as a toy — deactivated devices can still dial 9-1-1.

By giving children clear instructions and practicing what to do in an emergency, you can help them feel confident and prepared should they ever need to call for help.