Minister of Justice and Attorney General, Shirley Bond, issued the following statement in response to 9-1-1 and Emergency Services Dispatch Week:

"During an emergency, the voice on the other end of the phone can become a lifeline. The 9-1-1 operators and emergency dispatchers who receive our calls for help are a key link in our emergency system, connecting us to frontline service responders such as police, fire and ambulance services.

"This week, we thank 9-1-1 and emergency service dispatchers, and we recognize the jobs these professionals do and the essential service they provide to keep families safe in our communities right across British Columbia.

"The calls they receive number literally in the thousands. I want to take this opportunity to remind everyone of some simple steps we can take to support our 9-1-1/emergency dispatch workers to do the best job possible.

• "Post addresses and phone numbers in large print on or near the phone to assist children and visitors if they need to call 9-1-1 in an emergency
• Ensure house numbers are clearly displayed so emergency services can identify a residence quickly, and
• If you live off the roadway or have no mailbox, place an indicator sign at the end of your driveway to help mark your location.
• Teach children how and when to place a 9-1-1 call and to emphasize that 9-1-1 is strictly for emergencies only.

"There's something else we can all do, and it's an easy but important reminder. Far too often 9-1-1 is called inadvertently or for non-critical care incidents like minor vehicle collisions or a noise complaint, or to inquire about power outages and time changes. When we tie-up essential services unnecessarily, we potentially jeopardize others in a life-saving situation.

"These are just a few small steps we can take to support the work of our emergency services dispatch and 9-1-1 staff, not just this week, but throughout the year."

Contact:

Government Communications and Public Engagement
Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General
250 356-6961