(PEMBROKE, ON) – The Upper Ottawa Valley Detachment Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) continue to receive false and pocket-dialled 9-1-1 calls. In the first quarter of 2019 Upper Ottawa Valley OPP officers responded to 321 such calls. It is the OPP’s policy to dispatch officers to every identifiable location of every 9-1-1 call to ensure the safety of the person who made the call.
You can prevent pocket dials or unintentional 911 calls by:
• Using the keypad lock feature. Keypad locks, some of which can be programmed to activate automatically, prevent a mobile device from responding to keystrokes until the user unlocks the keypad using a short combination of key presses or password.
• Turning off the 911 autodial feature. Check the user manual or the manufacturer’s website or call the service provider to determine whether your device has this feature and how to turn it off.
• Refraining from programming a wireless device to automatically or “speed dial” 911.
The public is also 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.
