The Owen Sound Police Service says it has upgraded its emergency response system with the launch of Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) at the Owen Sound Emergency Communications Centre.
Police say the transition from the legacy 9-1-1 phone network now provides a digital infrastructure for modern emergency telecommunications. Though dialing 9-1-1 remains unchanged for callers, the underlying technology is said to help responders get more accurate caller location and phone number information, enhanced cybersecurity, and down the line, they’ll be able to support real-time text messaging.
"I’d like to recognize the outstanding work of our dedicated team in this monumental step forward for the Owen Sound Emergency Communications Centre," said Chief Craig Ambrose in a statement to media. "This transition to NG9-1-1 allows us to continue evolving and improving services for our Communicators, Police Officers and other Emergency Responders, and most importantly, to the people we serve in Owen Sound, and in communities all across Ontario."
The CRTC mandated that all service providers must transition to the new network by March 2027 and the Ontario government has provided more than $3.1M since 2022 to support the transition to NG9-1-1.
"Upgrading Ontario’s public safety communications will be a game changer," said Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario. “Next Generation 9-1-1 gives first responders real-time, life-saving information which means a faster, more effective emergency response... That’s why we are proud to provide funding to Owen Sound for this new technology which will mean more calls will be answered, more lives will be saved and people across the city can count on emergency services when it matters most."
