‘Next Generation’ 9-1-1 emergency system rolled out in Durham Region

The 9-1-1 emergency system in Durham Region took a big step into a new world of technology with the launch of Next Generation 9-1-1, part of a nationwide effort to modernize emergency communications in Canada.

NG9-1-1 upgrades the network that supports 9-1-1 services, improving reliability, resiliency and preparing for future enhancements.

There is no change in how the public contacts 9-1-1 – voice calling is still the only way to reach 9-1-1 – but the new network is designed to support additional capabilities in the future, including real-time text communication with emergency services and more precise call routing and location information.

These features will be introduced in future phases.

“NG9-1-1 represents an important advancement in how we deliver emergency services to our community,” said Durham Regional Chief Peter Moreira. “This technology strengthens our ability to respond quickly and effectively, while ensuring we continue to meet the evolving needs of the public.”

The transition to NG9-1-1 is in line with a CRTC mandate requiring all emergency services to adopt the network by the end of March 2027.

The Ontario government has provided more than $3.7 million since 2022 to support DRPS’s transition to NG9-1-1 and Solicitor General Michael Kerzner called the new system a “game changer.”

“Next Generation 9-1-1 gives first responders real-time, life-saving information which means a faster, more effective emergency response,” he said, adding that his government “will always have the backs of those who protect our province.”

The new technology, he said, will mean “more calls will be answered, more lives will be saved and people across the region can count on emergency services when it matters most.”

The NG9-1-1 network upgrade was implemented in partnership with Bell, Avaya, Netagen and Komutel, who supported the design and integration of the system.