Shortly after the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) updated its old 911 system, the Kitchener Fire Department is following suit by switching over to a new Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) system.
The department shared that it has rolled out this modern digital setup to boost what their old, traditional system could do.
“Next Generation 9-1-1 is more than a technology upgrade; it is a transformation of how we connect with those who need us most,” said Fire Chief Robert Gilmore. “For more than three decades, our Emergency Communications Centre has served this community well, but NG9-1-1 will ensure we are ready for the next generation of challenges, with faster, smarter and more resilient service.”
This update comes as Kitchener’s Dispatch Emergency Community Centre handles dispatch for fire departments in Kitchener, Cambridge, Waterloo, Woolwich, Wilmot, Wellesley, North Dumfries, and Stratford.
“Kitchener is proud to be at the forefront of public safety innovation. The launch of Next Generation 9-1-1 by our Fire Department marks a transformative step forward in how we serve and protect Kitchener and the 7 other communities we serve,” said Mayor Berry Vrbanovic.
Here’s what’s improving with the upgrade:
More precise caller location and phone number details Stronger cybersecurity protections Better backup systems if something goes wrong Ready to support new digital tech down the road
These upgrades come after receiving over $650,000 in funding since 2022 to help switch over to NG9-1-1. They hope it’ll speed up response times and help them keep up as Waterloo Region keeps growing in the years ahead.
Even though this is a big step for the fire department-one of the first Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) among fire services across Ontario to go live-the WRPS made this change earlier in September.
“Upgrading Ontario’s public safety communications will be a game changer,” said Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario. “Next Generation 9-1-1 gives first responders real-time, life-saving information, which means a faster, more effective emergency response.”
