The Manitoulin detachment of the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) would like to remind the public that 9-1-1 is only to be called in emergency situations.
As of Jan. 1, Manitoulin OPP has responded to 612 pocket dials, hang-ups, and dropped calls.
These accidental calls or abuse of 9-1-1 dispatch, have the potential to result in a slower response rate to real emergencies, risking the safety of others who may need police, fire and or medical services.
If you accidentally call 9-1-1, police ask that you stay on the line and tell the operator what happened and where you are so the call can be recorded appropriately.
To avoid accidental calls, police recommend locking your phone when it is not being used and keeping it out of the reach of children. Some phones that have a battery in them are capable of calling 9-1-1 even if there is no plan attached.
Residents are reminded that 9-1-1 is never to be used to obtain information about road conditions or closures.
In non-emergency situations, the Ontario Provincial Police can be reached at 1-888-310-1122.
