FAQ 9-1-1: Using Your Phone In an Emergency

When should I use 9-1-1?  |  Tips for using 9-1-1

In an emergency, your mobile phone can be a lifeline but there are a few facts you need to know before you dial 9-1-1.

NorthernTel Mobility provides connectivity to call centres contracted by municipalities. In cases where a call centre is not available, emergency calls will be transferred to an operator (same as dialling '0') who will then dispatch it to emergency services.

NorthernTel Mobility is planning to launch phase 1 of E911 wireless (enhanced 9-1-1) in 2006. This first phase involves modifications to the cellular network so that when a cellular caller dials 9-1-1, the area in which the caller is situated and his phone number will automatically be displayed for the operator. This enhanced method of 9-1-1 saves valuable time and is much more efficient.

Today, the technology in NorthernTel Mobility's territory does not allow the operator to identify the location of the call or the caller's number. The caller must provide his geographic position as precisely as possible. He must also provide his cellular number including the area code in case the operator needs to reach him.

No fees will be billed when 9-1-1 is called.

Calls to 9-1-1 from mobile phones are free of airtime charges.

When should I use 9-1-1?

You should call 9-1-1 in situations when the safety of people or property is at risk.

Examples of 9-1-1 emergencies include:

• fire,
• a crime in progress,
• accident or a medical emergency.

Do not pre-program 9-1-1 into a phone's speed-dial function to reduce chances of accidental calls.

Tips for using 9-1-1

If you need to call 9-1-1 when you are driving, stop your vehicle when it is safe to do so and look for street signs, addresses or landmarks. If you are driving on a highway, try to provide the highway number, your direction of travel and look for exit numbers, overpasses or major buildings.

Mobile phone users who routinely travel in areas where a 9-1-1 service does not exist, should know the phone numbers for local police, fire and ambulance services.

Remain calm and speak clearly. Identify which emergency service you require (police, fire or ambulance) and be prepared to provide the following information:

• What is your 10-digit mobile telephone number?
• What is your location?
• What is the emergency?

Please, remain on the line to provide additional information if requested by the operator. Do not hang up until the operator advises you to do so. After hanging up, leave your mobile phone turned on in case the operator needs to call you back.


The wireless telecommunications industry is committed to supporting improvements to 9-1-1 service. Wireless phone service providers are working with 9-1-1 call-takers, local telephone companies and government agencies to implement a national approach to enhancing wireless 9-1-1 services.

Please don't call 9-1-1 unless it is a real emergency!