Next Generation 911 system to launch across RCMP Southeast District next week

“The only immediate public-facing change will be the introduction of a new automated callback system, operated by E-Comm, for managing 911 calls that are quickly disconnected or abandoned.”

With Next Generation 911, people will be able to text 911 in real-time and also be able to share video. First responders will also be able to triangulate a caller’s location more accurately, but these features are not expected to be available “for several years” as it’s part of the second phase of the rollout.

“Modernizing our tools and technology is one of the RCMP’s key organizational priorities,” added Supt. Raina Siou, the Officer in Charge of the BC RCMP’s Operational Communication Centres Program.

“This update to our 911 systems to support our officers and employees in a constantly evolving policing environment will ensure we keep pace with the demands of modern policing and allow for faster and more efficient response to emergencies.”

Nancy Blair, the interim president & CEO of E-Comm, called the transition to Next Generation 911 a “critical step in modernizing how emergency calls are received and managed in British Columbia.”

“This work strengthens the reliability of our 911 system today, while laying the groundwork for future technologies that will better support both the public and first responders,” Blair said.

Three years ago, in the 2023 budget, the provincial government announced $150 million to enable the implementation of NG 911 in B.C. Other public safety agencies are also in the process of upgrading their systems.

More information about the BC RCMP’s transition to NG 911 can be found here.

by Victor Kaisar

Next Generation 911 system to launch across RCMP Southeast District next week

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