OPP reminds public to use 911 for emergencies only

To The Haldimand Press

HALDIMAND—Haldimand OPP is reminding the public of the proper use for 911 calls and that the number is in place for emergencies only.

In the fall of 2017, OPP launched the #KnowWhenToCall campaign to further educate the public on unintentional calls including pocket dials to 911. They continue to urge the public not to call 911 unless it’s an emergency, and not to let children play with mobile phones or tablets.

Data collected for 2018 indicates that Haldimand County OPP responded to 938 calls to 911 that were non-emergency or accidental dials. To date in 2019, Haldimand County OPP have responded to 750 non-emergency or accidental calls to 911, which equates to a projected full-year 17% increase over 2018. When someone calls 911, it is believed that someone needs urgent assistance. Emergency services such as police, fire, and ambulance will respond quickly and safely.

In an emergency every second counts.

• Call 911 when there is a life or death emergency requiring the “immediate response” of police, fire, or ambulance.
• 911 is for police, fire, or medical emergencies when someone’s health, safety, or property is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress.
• Do not tie up the line for a non-emergency, such as a request for road and weather information.