Call with care: Responsible 911 use saves lives

BRAMPTON, ON. (April 13, 2026) – During 911 Awareness Week in Peel, April 12 to 18, residents are reminded to use 911 only in true emergencies so those in life-threatening situations get help quicker. Misuse of 911 places unnecessary strain on emergency services and may delay response times for those in critical need.

In 2025, there were 637,645 calls to 911 in Peel. Nearly 16% of these were accidental or non-emergency calls.

Simple steps, such as locking mobile devices and avoiding programming 911 into speed dial, can help reduce accidental calls. It’s also important to teach children when and how to call 911 and how to recognize a real emergency. If 911 is called accidentally, callers should stay on the phone and let the operator know.

For non-emergencies, residents should call the appropriate number:

• 211 for social services such as housing, employment or senior supports.
• 311 for municipal services such as garbage, building permits and bylaws.
• 811 for confidential answers to health questions.
• 988 – a Suicide Crisis Helpline that offers a safe space to talk 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Residents are also asked to use police non-emergency numbers to report excessive noise, accidents without injury, or theft if the intruder has left: 

• 905-453-3311 for Peel Police
• 1-888-310-1122 Caledon O.P.P.  

More information about the proper use of 911 can be found at peelregion.ca/911.