Emergency Calls
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In an emergency where you require the assistance of the police, the fire department or an ambulance, 9-1-1 provides immediate access to all the emergency services. If a suspect is present, call 9-1-1. See When and How to Call Police brochure below. See Who to Call in an Emergency for other emergency calling information.
Non-emergency Calls
For all non-emergency incidents, (no suspect present), call the police at (604) 278-1212. See When and How to Call Police brochure below.
For other urgent matters such as serious water and sewer problems, road obstructions, traffic signal malfunctions, downed trees, icy roads or other problems of this nature, please call our 24 hour City Emergency Line at 604-270-8721.
Calling 9-1-1
The 9-1-1 operator will ask: "Police, Fire or Ambulance?" Try to stay calm. The operator will ask for your name, address, phone number and the nature of the emergency. If using a cell phone, state the city you are calling from. Answer the operator's questions as clearly as possible. Follow the operator's instructions and stay on the phone until the operator tells you that you can hang up.
You can call 9-1-1 from any telephone, even a pay phone, you don't need any money, just dial 9-1-1.
Don't call 9-1-1 just to see if it works. Your test call could cause delays in responding to real emergency calls. If you call 9-1-1 by mistake, stay on the line and let the operator know it was a mistake. Otherwise, the operator may think you are in distress and dispatch the emergency service unnecessarily.
Do not program 9-1-1 into your phone!
If you have been the victime of a crime:
Call the police even if you think the incident is too insignificant. Informing the police about crimes can help to prevent future crimes.
If you witness a crime:
Without putting yourself in danger, note any details which may be helpful to the police:
- type of crime (auto theft, assault, etc.)
- location: the street address or nearest cross streets
- any weapons involved
- description of the suspect(s) (height, weight, colour of skin, eyes, hair, and clothing)
- description of vehicle(s)
If you are the victim of a crime or witness a crime, use this Incident Checklist to record the details.
What happens to me when I call the police?
The police need to know as much as possible when they deal with actual or suspected criminal activity. When you call the police, the operator will take as much information as is required to be able to send the police to deal with the situation. But more information may be needed later, or facts may need to be checked out, so always leave your name and telephone number with the operator. You can remain anonymous. Neither the victim or the suspect will know who called the police. Simply tell the operator that you wish to remain anonymous and your privacy will be respected.
