Chatham-Kent Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is asking the public to know when to call 911.
OPP officials say 911 is for police, fire or medical emergencies when someone’s health, safety or property is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress.
If you place an unintentional 911 call, stay on the line to let the emergency operator know it was a pocket dial/unintentional call, police say.
“Every 911 call is taken seriously,” OPP officials said in a press release.
When a 911 caller doesn’t respond, that could be a sign of trouble – a possibility an emergency responder can’t ignore. Accidental calls or abuse of 911 ties up emergency lines, communicators and officers which could result in the slower response to a real emergency, risking the safety of people who may need urgent help.”
Police say to never call 911 to obtain information about road conditions and closures as these calls tie up lines that are intended for emergencies only and can result in delays for people who require immediate police, fire and medical services.
Ontario 511 is an Ontario Ministry of Transportation telephone service that provides the public with voice-activated, hands-free information on provincial highways:
– Road closures
– Winter road conditions
– Construction projects
For all non-emergency calls for service, call the OPP toll-free number 1-888-310-1122 which is available 24/7.
For more information about Ontario 511 visit http://www.mto.gov.on.ca/english/traveller/trip/about.shtml
