In October 2018, we’ve answered 132,451 9-1-1 calls.
So far in 2018 (to the end of October), E-Comm’s provincial 9-1-1 call volume is 1,324,951:
- 67 per cent of calls are for police
- 27 per cent of calls are for ambulance
- 6 per cent of calls are for fire
Our service level target is to answer 95 per cent of 9-1-1 calls in five seconds or less. To the end of October, our service level is 98 per cent. The total number of 9-1-1 calls are for E-Comm’s service area: 26 regional districts and communities spanning from Vancouver Island to Alberta and from the U.S. borders to north of Prince George.
Find out more about our 9-1-1 call statistics.
We also received four Text with 9-1-1 (T9-1-1) calls in October, for a total of 40 calls so far in 2018. T9-1-1 is a specialized texting service available for people who are Deaf/Deaf-Blind, Hard-of Hearing or Speech Impaired (DHHSI) that allows registered users to communicate with 9-1-1 call-takers through text. Find out more about T9-1-1.
Halloween is just around the corner! It’s a fun and spooky time of the year with many exciting events – which is why it’s also important to know when and when not to call 9-1-1.
Here are some tips on what to do when calling 9-1-1:
- Listen carefully, speak clearly and try to remain calm.
- Stay on the line and follow instructions. Your 9-1-1 call taker will stay on the line with you to make sure your call is answered by the agency you need. Don’t hang up until the call taker says it’s okay to.
- Know your location at all times and communicate it when you are asked.
Learn more about the 9-1-1 tips and information.
B.C. residents are getting ready to shake out!
On October 18 at 10:18 a.m., it’s time to take part in the Great British Columbia Shake Out. We’re joining millions around the world to practice how to “drop, cover and hold on” in the event of an earthquake. Find out more details about participating in the drill.
Here’s some important information about calling 9-1-1 after a real earthquake:
- After the shaking stops and it’s safe to come out from cover, ensure all phones are on the hook
- Do not use the telephone immediately unless a life is at stake
- If you have a serious emergency, dial 9-1-1. If you hear a busy signal, hang up and dial again. If you receive a recorded announcement, stay on the line and wait for a call-taker. Do not hang up. Your call will be answered as soon as possible.
- Do not call 9-1-1 for general information or to ask questions about the earthquake
- Help keep 9-1-1 lines free for those with serious emergencies
- Listen to your radio and TV for instructions and information, including finding out when it’s clear to telephone relatives and friends
Download our Dialing 9-1-1 after an Earthquake info card.
National Fire Prevention Week is from October 7-13.
When you call 9-1-1 to report a fire, remember it’s always important to provide as much information as possible to the call taker, so we can connect you to the local fire department. E-Comm also provides dispatch services for 18 fire departments.
Learn more about the dangers of fire, how to prevent it and how to keep your family safe by having – and practicing – an escape plan. Find out more about Fire Prevention Week.
Look. Listen. Learn.
E-Comm is a recognized leader in emergency communications. We are a place where you can assist the public and first responders when they are in the midst of crisis and provide them with the support they need. We provide emergency communication services in Metro Vancouver and 25 other regional districts across B.C. Our vision is to help make communities safer in B.C. through excellence in public safety communication.
Our responsibilities
- Operating the regional 9-1-1 call centre
- Providing dispatch services for various police agencies and fire departments
- Maintaining the emergency service radio system in Metro Vancouver used by police, fire and ambulance services
Check out our latest job opportunities. Our Human Resources team is ready to talk to you.
