In Canada, 911 is the general emergency number used in situations where a person’s life or property is in danger and an immediate response from the police, fire department, or ambulance is required. Below are the key details and important points you should know:

📞 When Should You Call 911?

This number is only for emergencies, such as:

• A serious medical emergency or someone who needs immediate help

• Fire or smoke

• A crime in progress (theft, violence, assault)

• A serious traffic accident

• Any situation where a human life is at risk

If the situation is not an emergency (for example, reporting a past theft, making a complaint, or anything that is not urgent), you should contact your local non-emergency number instead.

✅ Important Tips for Newcomers

• Calling 911 is free, even if you do not have a SIM card, phone credit, or an active mobile plan.

• The 911 operator may ask many questions (your location, address, condition of the injured person, type of emergency). Stay calm and answer clearly.

• If your English is limited, say: “Interpreter” or “I need language help.” Translation services are usually available for many languages.

• If you dial 911 by mistake, stay on the line and say “Mistake” or “Sorry.” Do not hang up immediately.

📱 Additional Feature: Text-to-911

Canada has a Text-to-911 system, but it is limited:

• This service is only available for people who are deaf or have speech or hearing impairments.

• The general public cannot request emergency help by text message alone and must place a voice call.

🏙️ 911 Availability Across Canada

The 911 emergency number is active in almost all provinces and territories across Canada.
Only in some very remote areas may full coverage be limited.