Residents of South Bruce Peninsula are now benefiting from Next Generation 911 (NG911), a major upgrade to emergency communications technology.
The system was launched by St. Catharines Fire Services, which provides fire dispatch services to 36 municipalities across Ontario, including South Bruce Peninsula.
Although residents will continue to dial 911 in an emergency as usual, NG911 introduces significant enhancements. The new system provides more accurate caller location and phone number data, improves reliability and cyber security, and increases backup capabilities in the event of a system failure. Future phases are expected to support Real-Time Text messaging and live emergency video calls.
The Ontario government, through the Solicitor General’s office, invested $4,016,982 to support St. Catharines Fire Services’ transition to NG911.
Mayor Jay Kirkland says “The implementation of Next Generation 911 is a significant step forward in protecting our residents and visitors. Through our partnership with St.
Catharines Fire Services, South Bruce Peninsula now benefits from enhanced technology that improves the speed, accuracy, and reliability of emergency response. We are grateful to the province, through the Solicitor General office of Honourable Michael Kerzner, for the investment in this critical infrastructure. This upgrade strengthens our emergency services today and positions us for even greater capabilities in the future, ensuring our community remains safe, connected, and resilient.”