Emergency Services

How does it work?

Calls for 9-1-1 connect the caller to a central emergency reporting bureau (CERB). A trained call-taker then determines the location and nature of the emergency and routes the call or the information to the appropriate emergency agency. Assistance is on the way in seconds.

Several important call features are offered with an enhanced 9-1-1 system:

• Emergency Ringback – allows the call-taker to contact the caller if he/she accidentally hangs up during the call
• Forced Disconnect – allows the call-taker to free a 9-1-1 line if the caller forgets to hang up
• Bureau Hold – allows the CERB to maintain control of the 9-1-1 lines for as long as the emergency situation warrants

These features are in addition to providing the call-taker with the phone number and associated address of the caller. This special feature enables emergency services to locate a caller who may be incoherent or unable to talk during a crisis.

Benefits of 9-1-1

9-1-1 provides quick public access to police, fire and ambulance services. The number is quick and easy to remember. Visitors and new residents will feel secure knowing assistance is available quickly when needed.

Trained personnel receive the call, which saves valuable time once the call reaches the central emergency reporting bureau (CERB).

9-1-1 also acts as an effective crime deterrent, reducing the number of false alarms and criminal uses of telephone lines.

Requirements for 9-1-1

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) regulation includes the three basic emergency services – police, fire and ambulance. They also include other services such as gas and hydro hotlines, domestic violence crisis lines, and public works departments at an additional cost.