According to E-Comm, which operates 911 emergency calls in British Columbia (BC), the number of 911 calls in May this year was a record high of approximately 240,000.
According to the report released on June 12, the number of calls increased by 39% from 172,000 in the same month last year. Also, in the first five months of 2023, the number of calls is up 21% compared to the previous year.
The increase has been attributed to extreme temperatures, wildfires, and a return to pre-coronavirus activities such as travel and events. E-Comm expects the number of calls to 911 to increase dramatically this summer and is calling for the cooperation of state residents to protect the system.
The three main points are:
“Call 911 only when you need the police, ambulance, or fire department in an emergency (see examples on the E-comm website)” and “Know your location. Even if the address isn’t correct, the names of cities, towns, villages, streets, and landmarks can be clues.” If you dial the wrong number, don’t hang up and tell them you’re safe.”