Nova Scotians will be able to text 911 by 2026

Nova Scotia is gearing up to launch a cutting-edge 911 system that will revolutionize emergency response in the province. The new system, known as next-generation 911 (NG911), is based on modern technology and promises to provide first responders with more detailed information to assist individuals in distress.

Over the past few years, Nova Scotia has been diligently testing and preparing for the implementation of NG911. This digital system will enable quicker and more accessible communication during emergencies, ultimately enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of emergency response efforts.

One of the key features of the new 911 system is its ability to accept text messages and pinpoint a caller’s location using global positioning system (GPS) technology. While the current system can track calls from landlines, it struggles to accurately determine the location of cellphone calls. By incorporating text messaging capabilities and GPS technology, the new system will significantly improve the accuracy and speed of emergency response.

Dave Wilson, the director of 911 for the Department of Emergency Management, emphasized the importance of relaying accurate information to responding units during emergencies. He highlighted that the new system will eliminate the need for individuals with speech or hearing impairments to register for text 911, making it accessible to all Nova Scotians.

In addition to text messaging, the NG911 system is expected to support the transmission of photos and videos in the near future. This advancement could prove invaluable in scenarios such as house fires, where sending a video of the blaze to 911 could help firefighters assess the situation and determine the necessary resources before arriving on the scene.

While Nova Scotia is ahead of schedule in implementing NG911, Wilson acknowledged that some rural fire departments may require technological upgrades to fully benefit from the new system. As part of an upcoming review of fire services in the province, efforts will be made to ensure that all departments have the necessary resources to leverage the capabilities of the new system effectively.

Terry Canning, former first vice-president of the Fire Service Association of Nova Scotia, emphasized the importance of improving fire dispatch services across the province. He expressed optimism about the potential for consolidation and enhancement of fire dispatch services through the new NG911 system.

To educate the public about the upcoming changes, Nova Scotia plans to launch a public awareness campaign about the new 911 system. Wilson emphasized that the department will not tolerate any abuse of the service, and individuals who send fake emergency texts could face fines.

As Nova Scotia prepares to roll out the NG911 system, it has selected Intrado Life & Safety to deliver the new technology. The company will also provide the service for parts of Quebec, further solidifying the province’s commitment to enhancing emergency response capabilities.