Edmonton

1. How to Contact Emergency Services in Edmonton

In Edmonton, emergency services can be accessed through the universal emergency number 911. This number connects you to the appropriate service based on the nature of the emergency.

• Dial 911 for:
  • Police
  • Fire
  • Ambulance/Medical emergencies

Important Notes:

• 911 is free to call from any phone, including mobile phones, payphones, and landlines.
• If you do not speak English, interpreters are available for over 240 languages. Simply state your language, and the operator will connect you to an interpreter.
• For individuals with hearing or speech impairments, Edmonton offers Text with 911 (T9-1-1) services. You must register your mobile device with your wireless carrier to use this service.

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2. Categories of Emergency Assistance

Edmonton’s emergency services are divided into three main categories:

a. Police Services

• Edmonton Police Service (EPS) handles crimes, public safety, and law enforcement.
• Examples of emergencies: Assault, theft in progress, suspicious activity, or any situation where someone’s safety is at immediate risk.
• Non-emergency police line: 780-423-4567 or #377 from a mobile phone (for non-urgent matters like reporting a past crime or suspicious activity).

b. Fire Services

• Edmonton Fire Rescue Services (EFRS) responds to fires, hazardous material incidents, and rescue operations.
• Examples of emergencies: Building fires, gas leaks, vehicle accidents requiring rescue, or chemical spills.

c. Medical Services

• Alberta Health Services (AHS) provides ambulance and paramedic services for medical emergencies.
• Examples of emergencies: Heart attacks, severe injuries, strokes, or any life-threatening medical condition.

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3. Cost of Emergency Services

While calling 911 is free, the cost of the services provided may vary depending on the type of assistance required:

a. Police Services

• There is no direct cost to individuals for police assistance in emergencies.

b. Fire Services

• Fire response is generally covered by municipal taxes, so there is no direct cost for fire-related emergencies.

c. Medical Services (Ambulance)

• Ambulance services in Alberta are not free and are billed to the patient.
  • Base fee: Approximately CAD $250.
  • Per kilometer fee: Around CAD $2.50 per kilometer traveled.
  • If you have Alberta Health Care Insurance (AHCIP), a portion of the cost may be covered, but you may still have to pay out-of-pocket fees.
  • Private health insurance may cover additional costs, so check your policy.

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4. Procedures for Accessing Help

When you call 911, follow these steps to ensure a quick and effective response:

1. Stay Calm: Speak clearly and remain calm to provide accurate information.
2. Provide Your Location: Give the exact address or location of the emergency. If you’re unsure, describe nearby landmarks or intersections.
3. Describe the Emergency: Briefly explain what is happening (e.g., “There’s a fire in my building” or “Someone is unconscious”).
4. Answer Questions: The operator will ask follow-up questions to assess the situation and dispatch the appropriate service.
5. Follow Instructions: Stay on the line and follow any instructions given by the operator until help arrives.

Tips:

• If you accidentally call 911, do not hang up. Stay on the line and inform the operator that it was a mistake. Hanging up may result in emergency responders being dispatched to check on you.
• Save the non-emergency numbers for police and other services in your phone for situations that do not require immediate assistance.

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5. Local Considerations and Tips for Newcomers

Edmonton has some unique aspects to consider when accessing emergency services:

a. Winter Weather Preparedness

• Edmonton experiences harsh winters with heavy snow and icy conditions. Be prepared for weather-related emergencies such as vehicle accidents or frostbite.
• Keep an emergency kit in your car, including blankets, a flashlight, and a first-aid kit.

b. Wildfire and Air Quality Alerts

• During summer months, wildfires in Alberta can affect air quality in Edmonton. Stay informed through local news or the Alberta Emergency Alert system (available as a mobile app).

c. Alberta Emergency Alert System

• This system provides real-time alerts for natural disasters, public safety threats, and other emergencies. Alerts are broadcast on TV, radio, and mobile devices.

d. Emergency Preparedness

• The City of Edmonton encourages residents to have a 72-hour emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and important documents.

e. Cultural Sensitivity

• Edmonton is a multicultural city, and emergency responders are trained to handle diverse situations. If you are unfamiliar with local customs or laws, do not hesitate to ask for clarification when interacting with emergency personnel.

f. Reporting Non-Emergencies

• For non-urgent issues, use the appropriate non-emergency numbers:
  • Police: 780-423-4567
  • Fire: 311 (City of Edmonton information line)
  • Health Link (for medical advice): 811

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6. Additional Resources

• Text with 911 (T9-1-1): For individuals with hearing or speech impairments. Register your phone at your wireless carrier’s website.
• Alberta Health Services (AHS): For information on medical services and insurance coverage. Visit www.albertahealthservices.ca.
• City of Edmonton Emergency Management: Learn about local emergency preparedness at www.edmonton.ca.

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By understanding how to access and navigate Edmonton’s emergency services, you can feel confident and prepared to handle any situation that arises during your time in the city. Stay safe!