VANCOUVER – E-Comm, the largest 911 call centre in B.C., has put out their annual list of the top 10 reasons not to call 911 and we hope the list will shock you.
About 2,600 911 calls were placed every day to E-Comm in 2014 and they want to draw attention to the fact that too many calls come through that do not meet the test of a true emergency.
“Our staff are trained to treat every call that comes through our centre as a valid emergency, until they determine otherwise, no matter what the circumstance,” said E-Comm spokesperson Jody Robertson. “Even if the reason for the call seems absurd on the surface, 911 call-takers need to take time to determine exactly what’s going on and whether someone genuinely needs help. Calls about internet access and cold food are a serious drain on emergency resources.”
E-Comm 911 call-taker, Warner Yang, said if someone calls 911 about Internet problems, then he is not available to help someone who really needs it.
“We’re reaching out today to remind the public that 911 is a life-line, not an information line,” added Robertson. “We hope our message that 911 call-takers cannot answer questions about how long power outages will last, when the clocks turn back, or other non-emergency questions, will help reduce these kinds of calls and keep the lines open for real emergencies.”
Top ten reasons not to call 911 in 2014:
- Wi-Fi at a local coffee shop isn’t working
- “What’s the fine for jay walking?”
- Pizza not fresh; wants a replacement slice
- “What’s the number for my travel agency?”
- Caller phoned 9-1-1 to ask for a taxi referral
- “Is today a stat holiday?”
- Food they ordered is cold
- Wants help finding lost glasses
- Home Internet is not working
- “What’s the date today?”
“I really wish this was a fabrication but sadly these are true calls that were placed to 911 this year,” said Robertson.
E-Comm serves Metro Vancouver, the Sunshine Coast, the Squamish-Lillooet Regional District, Northern Vancouver Island and Regional Districts in the Northern, Central and Southern Interiors.
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