The Grenville County OPP is looking for the public’s assistance in solving a County-wide issue. Between January 1, 2017 and July 10, officers from the Grenville County OPP have responded to 255 unnecessary 9-1-1 calls.
The majority of these calls are the result of either cell phone “pocket dials”, 9-1-1 dialled in error, or young people playing with phones. 9-1-1 calls are a priority, and two officers are required to attend to these calls and ensure the safety of the person who made the call. These error and pocket dial calls tie up emergency lines and may cause a delay in responding to those who need help immediately.
There are several things the public should know about the use and misuse of the 9-1-1 service:
Every time 9-1-1 is misused it takes 9-1-1 operators away from assisting people with real emergencies.
9-1-1 is for emergencies: the Ontario Provincial Police has phone lines for non-emergencies such as noise complaints, parking complaints, and incidents that took place hours or days earlier.
Extra care should be taken with cell phones. Most modern cell phones have a one-button touch requirement to make an emergency call. Keyboard locks and phone holsters can help cut down on accidental emergency calls.
Older cell phones should not be used as toys for children, as these cell phones, if they are charged, even without being active, can still be used to call 9-1-1.
9-1-1 should never be programmed into phones; it doesn’t take long to dial 9-1-1.
If you accidentally dial 9-1-1, stay on the phone. Tell the operator it was an accident and provide all of the appropriate information to the 9-1-1 operator.
9-1-1 is the emergency telephone number that connects you to Police, Fire or Ambulance in an emergency situation. Calling 9-1-1 helps you reach emergency services when you require immediate assistance. An emergency is any situation when the safety of people or property is at risk and requires immediate assistance.
For non-emergent calls for service to the Grenville County OPP, please call their 24hr toll-free line at 1-888-310-1122.
