British Columbia people called 911 more than 2 million times last year, and this year is even more promising

B.C.'s Emergency Communications Center is working with the general public to encourage people to use the 911 responsibly.

E-Commsaid he expects one of the busiest summers on record for emergency services and first responders.

In 2021, Colombians in the UK dialed 911 more than 2 million times, and the company said that 9 of the 10 busiest days of 911 emergency services were recorded that year. Call volume in the fourth quarter of 2021 increased by 22% compared to the previous year.

"Before the traditionally busy summer months, E-Comm is concerned about the pattern of call volume growth and the demand and burden it puts on staff and the first responders to support. "Masu," Jasmine Bradley, E-Communications and Public Relations Comm Executive Director, said in the release. "Some of the most emergency calls we've had in our 23 years of service."

E-Comm, He said he expects an additional 12% increase in this year's emergency call.

Bradley said that this is the first summer withoutCOVID-19rallies, events, travel restrictions, increased mobile phone usage, growth and aging. Said expecting an increase in population, the crisis of illegal drug toxicity, mental health challenges, meteorological phenomena such as floods, fires and heat.

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E-comm remember that if the 911 is busy, the police, fire and ambulance first responders are also busy. Said it was important.

"Once the COVID restrictions are over and the summer begins, Vancouver police expect a surge of people coming to the city to enjoy beaches, parks, shopping and entertainment," Sgt said. Steve Addison of the Vancouver Police Department said in the release. "More people always bring more calls to police services, and we continue to make public safety our number one priority."

Vancouver Fire Rescue Service also asks people to confirm that smoke alarms are working and to safely use and charge lithium-ion battery-powered devices. I want it. Smoking materials are properly disposed of.

"In the event of a serious medical emergency, definitely call 911," said Bryantwaite, a paramedics specialist at BC Emergency Medical Services, in the release. "But if you have a less urgent health problem, you can call 811 to get in touch with HealthLink BC nurses and other professionals so that you can be highly trained. Emergency medical dispatch staff and emergency personnel will be available to those in need of service most. ”

5 tips to remember Part of the new HelpUsHelp campaign:

Think before dialing
1. 911.
   To determine if immediate response is required for police, fire and ambulance services, consider the following: question. If you answer "yes" to any of them, dial 911 immediately.
   • Is anyone's health at risk?
   • Is anyone's safety or property currently at stake?
   • Is the crime ongoing?
2.  Knowing where you are, especially if you're calling from a mobile phone, so that the person receiving the 911 call will find you quickly and easily to the first responder. You can instruct.
3.  When you go jogging, lock and store your mobile phone and carry it in your pocket or wallet. Do not save 911 as a contact on your mobile phone. If your child is playing, put your device in airplane mode. This can reduce pocket dials and incorrectly dialed 911 calls.
4.  Please do not hang up. If you accidentally call 911, don't hang up. When the call taker answers, let us know that you dialed incorrectly. This eliminates the need to call back to ensure safety.
5.  Assist 911 call takers and dispatchers, and first responders by providing the information you need.

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