Ontario is investing nearly $22 million to help municipalities and emergency response centers support the transition to a new 911 system.
According to officials, the communications system, known as Next Generation 911, will make it easier to provide additional details about emergency situations, such as video from the scene of an accident and the ability to text when needing immediate help. It will also give emergency operators and dispatchers the ability to identify the location of a call using GPS coordinators resulting in a faster, safer response.
“Every second counts when calling 9-1-1, and that’s why we are taking action to ensure Ontario’s emergency operators and dispatchers have access to state-of-the-art technology so that they can get help to where it’s needed most,” said Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “Extending Next Generation 9-1-1 funding for an additional year will support the continued adoption of this life-saving system, resulting in safer communities and a better-protected Ontario.”
Public safety answering points that handle emergency calls, and have not yet transitioned, will have the opportunity to apply for funding this summer.
The funding is part of a $208 million investment to upgrade infrastructure and technology to support the 911 transition.
