Watch Out For 9-1-1 Pocket Dials
THUNDER BAY, ON – The North West Region Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) want to remind motorists to be careful about accidentally dialing 9-1-1 when they are travelling on the roadways in North West Region. Pocket dials usually occur when a cell phone accidentally dials 9-1-1 as a result of being stored in locations such as a pocket, handbag or backpack.
It is important to remember that 9-1-1 lines are for emergencies only and are often a person’s lifeline for urgent assistance. Accidentally dialing 9-1-1 ties up emergency lines and can result in an officer being dispatched to determine the location of the caller and whether or not assistance is required.
In order to reduce 9-1-1 “pocket dials” the OPP asks motorists to engage in a number of good habits:
- Cell phone users can dramatically reduce the number of pocket dials by carrying their cell phone in a holster and/or making sure that the keypad is locked
- Do not make 9-1-1 part of your programmed auto-dialing
- With so many types of cell phones and accessories available, people are encouraged to read their user manual or contact their cell phone provider to find out what options are available to “pocket dial proof” their phone
The OPP want to remind the public that an emergency is any situation in which the safety of people or property is at risk and requires immediate assistance. Examples include a crime in progress, a medical emergency or a fire, and using 9-1-1 in these situations is the fastest way to get assistance. For non-emergency calls, dial 1-888-310-1122.
