Do you know local non-emergency numbers? Campaign launches to combat 911 misuse

CTV News

08-05-2025

Windsor-Essex police and fire departments are joining a provincewide campaign to combat 911 misuse.
The Emergency Services Steering Committee has launched the 'When Every Second Counts' campaign to reduce non-emergency 911 calls and educate the public on proper use of 911.
'The 911 line is for life-threatening or urgent emergencies, yet we continue to see calls made for reasons ranging from minor inconveniences to non-emergency situations that can be handled through other channels,' said Laura Smith, director of the Windsor Police Emergency 911 Centre team. 'Calls for lost items, noise complaints, or even pocket dials take time away from real emergencies. It's critical that we ensure 911 lines remain open for those in urgent need for police, fire or ambulance.'
Last year, local 911 operators received over 120,000 calls, with approximately over 17,000 being non-emergency-related. Across Ontario, police services report that nearly half of all 911 calls are for non-emergencies, including accidental dials, hang-ups, and frivolous inquiries.
'Our service is committed to ensuring our residents have access to the right information and resources,' said Jill Lawrence, Windsor Police Service Superintendent of Patrol Response. 'By participating in this campaign, we are helping to provide education on when to call 911 and when to use non-emergency numbers, so that emergency services remain available for those who truly need them.'
As part of the 'When Every Second Counts' campaign, residents are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the local non-emergency numbers: