Montreal

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Emergency Contacts

Key emergency phone numbers and communication resources for urgent situations.

Sections

1. General Emergency Number: 9-1-1

  • Purpose: The 9-1-1 number is the central emergency line for police, fire, and ambulance services in Montreal.
  • How to Use: Dial 9-1-1 from any phone (landline, mobile, or payphone). The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, then dispatch the appropriate service.
  • Languages: Operators typically speak both English and French. If you do not speak either language, they will attempt to connect you with a translator.
  • Cost: Free to call. However, ambulance services may involve fees (see below under "Ambulance Services").
  • Local Considerations:
    • Be prepared to provide your exact location, as this helps emergency responders reach you quickly.
    • If you are using a mobile phone, ensure your GPS is enabled to assist with location tracking.

2. Police Services

  • Emergency Situations: For crimes in progress, threats to personal safety, or other urgent law enforcement needs, call 9-1-1.
  • Non-Emergency Situations: For non-urgent matters (e.g., reporting a theft after the fact, noise complaints, or lost property), contact the Montreal Police Service (Service de police de la Ville de Montrรฉal, SPVM) at 514-280-2222.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Police officers in Montreal are bilingual (French and English), but French is the primary language. If you are more comfortable in English, let them know.
    • Always carry identification, as police may ask for it during interactions.

3. Fire Services

  • Emergency Situations: For fires, gas leaks, or hazardous material incidents, call 9-1-1.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Montrealโ€™s fire department (Service de sรฉcuritรฉ incendie de Montrรฉal, SIM) is highly trained and equipped to handle urban emergencies.
    • If you live in an apartment or condo, familiarize yourself with the buildingโ€™s fire evacuation plan.

4. Ambulance Services

  • Emergency Situations: For medical emergencies requiring immediate attention, call 9-1-1. Ambulance services in Montreal are provided by Urgences-santรฉ.
  • Cost:
    • Ambulance transport is not free. As of 2023, the base fee is approximately $125 CAD, plus $1.75 CAD per kilometer traveled. Additional fees may apply for specific medical interventions during transport.
    • Visitors should check if their travel insurance covers ambulance fees. Immigrants with provincial health insurance (RAMQ) may have partial coverage.
  • Local Considerations:
    • If you are not fluent in French or English, paramedics will do their best to communicate with you or use translation services.
    • If you are unsure whether an ambulance is necessary, you can call Info-Santรฉ (811) for medical advice (see below).

5. Info-Santรฉ and Info-Social (811)

  • Purpose: This is a 24/7 helpline for non-urgent health and social service inquiries. It is staffed by registered nurses and social workers.
  • How to Use: Dial 811 from any phone.
  • Languages: Services are available in French and English.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Use this service for advice on whether to visit a hospital, clinic, or pharmacy, or for mental health support.
    • This is a great resource for immigrants and visitors unfamiliar with the Canadian healthcare system.

6. Poison Control Center

  • Purpose: For cases of poisoning or suspected poisoning (e.g., ingestion of toxic substances, drug overdoses), contact the Quebec Poison Control Center (Centre antipoison du Quรฉbec).
  • Contact Number: 1-800-463-5060 (toll-free, 24/7).
  • Languages: French and English.
  • Cost: Free.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Have the product or substance label on hand when calling, if possible.
    • This service is available for both adults and children.

7. Crisis Services

  • Suicide Prevention and Mental Health Crisis:
    • Contact the Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-866-277-3553 (toll-free, 24/7).
    • For immediate mental health crises, you can also call 811 (Info-Social) or 9-1-1 if the situation is life-threatening.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Montreal has a strong network of mental health resources, including crisis centers and community organizations.
    • Many services are bilingual, but French is the default language.

8. Roadside Assistance

  • Purpose: For vehicle breakdowns, flat tires, or other non-emergency roadside issues.
  • Contact Numbers:
    • CAA-Quebec: 1-800-222-4357 (membership required for service).
  • Local Considerations:
    • If your vehicle is obstructing traffic or causing a hazard, call 9-1-1 for police assistance.

9. Consular Assistance for Foreign Nationals

  • Purpose: If you are a visitor or immigrant and require assistance from your home country (e.g., lost passport, legal issues), contact your countryโ€™s consulate or embassy in Montreal.
  • How to Find Contact Information:
    • Visit the official website of your countryโ€™s embassy in Canada.
    • Many consulates in Montreal are located downtown or in nearby areas.
  • Local Considerations:
    • Keep a copy of your passport and visa in a safe place in case of loss or theft.

10. Emergency Preparedness Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

  • Carry Identification: Always have a government-issued ID and proof of health insurance (e.g., RAMQ card or travel insurance details).
  • Know Your Address: Memorize or carry the address of your residence or hotel, as well as nearby landmarks.
  • Language: While many Montrealers are bilingual, French is the dominant language. Learning a few basic French phrases can be helpful in emergencies.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Montreal is a multicultural city, and emergency responders are trained to respect diverse cultural and religious practices. If you have specific needs (e.g., dietary restrictions, religious considerations), communicate them clearly.
  • Weather Preparedness: Montreal experiences harsh winters. In case of snowstorms or extreme cold, monitor local news and follow safety advisories.

Summary of Key Emergency Numbers

| Service | Number | Notes | |----------------------------------|-----------------|-----------------------------------------| | General Emergency (Police, Fire, Ambulance) | 9-1-1 | Free to call; ambulance fees may apply. | | Non-Emergency Police | 514-280-2222 | For non-urgent law enforcement issues. | | Info-Santรฉ / Info-Social | 811 | Free medical and social advice. | | Poison Control | 1-800-463-5060 | Free, 24/7 service. | | Suicide Prevention Hotline | 1-866-277-3553 | Free, 24/7 mental health support. | | Roadside Assistance (CAA-Quebec) | 1-800-222-4357 | Membership required for service. |

By familiarizing yourself with these services and numbers, youโ€™ll be well-prepared to handle emergencies during your time in Montreal. Let me know if you need further assistance!