The Richmond RCMP is reminding the public about the importance of staying calm and giving specific information when calling 9-1-1.
The emergency number is meant for ongoing situations – when someone’s life, safety or property is in immediate danger, or if there is a crime in progress.
When you call 9-1-1, it goes to E-Comm, where a call taker will direct the call to police, fire or ambulance, depending on the situation.
Police calls go to a police call taker, who will ask what is happening. This information is simultaneously relayed to a dispatcher who communicates with officers on the ground.
Richmond RCMP remind people to stay calm during the call and answer all questions. Common questions are location, the nature of the incident, parties involved and safety – for example, are there any weapons or is anyone hurt.
Callers shouldn’t hang up until the call taker tells them to, RCMP added.
“Knowing what to expect when you call 9-1-1 and having a greater understanding of the process can help people feel more confident and prepared when it matters most,” said Carly Paice, E-Comm communications manager.
“Our team of experienced call takers and dispatchers, in close collaboration with police and first responders, work together to help connect callers with the critical help they need, as quickly as possible.”
“The often-unsung heroes are those answering your first call for help,” said Chief Supt. Dave Chauhan, Officer-in-Charge Richmond RCMP.
Non-emergency police calls
The public should call the Richmond RCMP non-emergency number (604-278-1212) for non-urgent situations that don't require an immediate response, such as when there’s a crime but no suspect, the crime occurred a while ago or to report suspicious activity or ongoing crime issues in an area.
E-Comm’s non-emergency recent service improvements include a dedicated call-taking team and interactive software that provides callers in the Lower Mainland with wait-time estimates and call-back requests.
The best time to call is between 7 a.m. and 9 p.m.
Online reporting is another option for certain types of non-urgent crime.
Police remind the public to always lock and store phones carefully. If someone pocket dials 9-1-1 by accident, they're asked to stay on the line so police can make sure they're safe.
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