Ottawa Fire Services now migrated to Next Generation 9-1-1

Ottawa Fire Services has officially migrated to Next Generation 9-1-1, following Ottawa Police Service’s successful migration in March.

Next Generation 9-1-1, also known as NG9-1-1, is a behind-the-scenes upgrade to the core infrastructure of Canada’s 9-1-1 network. NG9-1-1 replaces the current, aging analog infrastructure with a modern digital network that is more reliable, secure and better able to support enhanced location and data in the future.

With this upgrade, Ottawa’s 9-1-1 network joins jurisdictions across the country in improving how emergency calls can be routed, managed, and shared between services over time. NG9-1-1 also lays the groundwork for future features, such as real-time text and multimedia, which are not available yet.

The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC), the federal regulator on this upgrade, has directed the decommissioning of the current analog network by March 31, 2027.

The Ontario government has provided over $3.3 million since 2022 to support Ottawa Fire Services’ transition to NG9-1-1.

In an emergency, continue to call 9-1-1. There is no change to how residents call 9-1-1 or how calls are handled. For more information, visit the City’s When to call 9-1-1 and what to say page.

Further details about NG9-1-1 are available on the CRTC’s Next Generation 9-1-1 page.

“Upgrading Ontario’s public safety communications will be a game changer. Next Generation 9-1-1 gives first responders real-time, life-saving information which means a faster, more effective emergency response. Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government will always have the backs of those who protect our province. That’s why we are proud to provide funding to Ottawa Fire Services for this new technology which will mean more calls will be answered, more lives will be saved and people across the city can count on emergency services when it matters most.” 

Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario

“When residents call 9-1-1, they need to know help will be there quickly and reliably. This upgrade is an important step in modernizing Ottawa’s emergency response network and ensuring our first responders have the technology they need to serve our community. I want to thank Ottawa Fire Services, Ottawa Police Service and Ontario Government for the work they’ve done and support they’ve provided to bring Next Generation 9-1-1 to our city and help keep residents safe.”

Mayor Mark Sutcliffe

"Our priority is supporting effective emergency response. Next Generation 9-1-1 establishes the modern infrastructure needed to support future enhancements, strengthening the networks that support our crews and the community we serve."

Chief Paul Hutt, Ottawa Fire Services