Northern Ont. police warn against misuse of 911 after false stabbing report

A smartphone is shown with 911 dialed on its touchscreen in this promotional police photo. (Supplied/Ontario Provincial Police)

Ontario Provincial Police are reminding the public about the proper use of emergency services after responding to a false stabbing report in northern Ontario.

On Aug. 3 at about 10 p.m., members of the Manitoulin OPP detachment were dispatched to a 911 call claiming a stabbing had occurred in Espanola. Officers quickly determined the report was unfounded.

“The caller was intoxicated and had contacted police seeking assistance in retrieving personal belongings from another location,” OPP said in a news release Monday afternoon.

The individual was subsequently charged with public intoxication and public mischief.

Consequences of misusing 911

Authorities stressed that false reports strain emergency resources.

“This false report diverted critical police and emergency communication resources away from potential real emergencies,” said police.

Misuse of 911 can delay response times for legitimate emergencies.

Intentionally making a false emergency report is a criminal offence under the Criminal Code and can result in charges of public mischief.

Accidental calls also a concern

OPP also highlighted the issue of accidental 911 calls, which burden emergency lines.

To reduce unintentional calls, police recommend:

• Locking phone screens when not in use.
• Disabling auto-dial emergency features if unnecessary.
• Storing phones securely and keeping them away from children.

“If you accidentally call 911, do not hang up,” OPP said. “Stay on the line and inform the operator that the call was made in error and that there is no emergency.”

Police advised that anging up may trigger a police response, wasting additional resources.

Non-emergency services

For non-urgent matters, the OPP urged the public to contact their non-emergency line at 1-888-310-1122. Other inquiries, such as weather updates or road conditions, should be directed to Environment Canada or Ontario 511.

“The OPP appreciates the public’s cooperation in using 911 responsibly to ensure help is available when it’s truly needed,” police said, concluding their news release.