The Upper Ottawa Valley OPP continue to receive calls made to 9-1-1 that should have never been made.
The public is reminded that 9-1-1 is for police, fire, or medical emergencies when someone’s health, safety or property is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress.
Misuse and abuse of 9-1-1 could result in a slower response to a real emergency; risking the safety of people who may need urgent help.
The OPP reminds you that the toll-free number 1-888-310-1122 is available 24/7 for non-emergency calls for service in Ontario.
It is the OPP’s policy to dispatch an officer to every identifiable location of every 9-1-1 call to ensure the safety of the person who made the call. As such, cell phone users are requested to help reduce the number of 9-1-1 pocket dials by keeping their cell phone in a holster and/or making sure the keypad is locked.
People should also be aware that they have the option to report select occurrences to police from the convenience of a computer or mobile device. Using the Citizen Self Reporting system, specific incidents can be reported online at your convenience without attending a detachment or waiting for an officer. The system can be used to report: theft under $5,000; mischief / damage to property or vehicle under $5,000; theft from vehicle; lost / missing property under $5,000; stolen licence plates or validation stickers or driving complaints.
Do not use the self-reporting system if it is an emergency or if you are reporting a crime in progress.
If it is an emergency or crime in progress, call 9-1-1. In non-emergency situations people can report incidents to the OPP by calling 1-888-310-1122 to report a crime and have an officer attend. Please visit www.opp.ca/reporting for further information about the Citizen Self Reporting system or to determine if your occurrence qualifies for online reporting.
