New digital 911 system a ‘game-changer’ in Owen Sound

The 911 dispatch centre. (CTV News)

Owen Sound’s 911 service is getting a major upgrade, promising faster, more accurate help when emergencies strike. The city’s Emergency Communications Centre has moved to Next Generation 911 (NG911), a digital system that keeps the familiar 911 number but gives dispatchers better tools to locate callers and respond quickly.

The service says the upgrade also strengthens system backups, improves cybersecurity, and lays the groundwork for future features like real-time text messaging, making the service more reliable for residents across Owen Sound and surrounding communities.

“I’d like to recognize the outstanding work of our dedicated team in this monumental step forward for the Owen Sound Emergency Communications Centre,” said Chief Craig Ambrose. “This transition to NG911 allows us to continue evolving and improving services for our communicators, police officers and other emergency responders, and most importantly, to the people we serve in Owen Sound, and in communities all across Ontario.”

The Ontario government has contributed more than $3.1 million since 2022 to support the upgrade.

Solicitor General Michael Kerzner called NG911 a “game changer” that gives first responders real-time information for faster, more effective emergency response. “More calls will be answered, more lives will be saved and people across the city can count on emergency services when it matters most,” he stated.

Officials remind the public to use 911 only for true emergencies where immediate police, fire, or medical help is needed.