Burlington Fire has advanced its emergency response capabilities with the successful transition to the Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) network.
The new, modernized network will improve backup capabilities in the event of system failure, strengthen cybersecurity protection, and lay the groundwork for future capabilities including real-time text, and multimedia communications.
Burlington Fire transitioned to NG9-1-1, in keeping with the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission's (CRTC) mandate that provinces, municipalities and Public Safety Answering Points (PSAP) across Canada meet NG9-1-1 standards by the end of March 2027.
The Ontario government has provided close to $3 million since 2022 to support Burlington Fire's transition to NG9-1-1.
Despite the implementation of the new network, there is no change in how residents access emergency services. Those in need of emergency assistance should still just dial 9-1-1.
Quick Facts
- The Burlington Fire Communications Centre provides 9-1-1 emergency call-taking and fire dispatch services for the City of Burlington and Town of Oakville Fire Departments.
- Traditional 9-1-1 networks were designed many years ago for landline phones. NG9-1-1 better supports modern technologies like smart devices and digital networks.
Quotes
Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario
"Upgrading Ontario's public safety communications will be a game changer. Next Generation 9-1-1 gives first responders real-time, life-saving information which means a faster, more effective emergency response. Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government will always have the backs of those who protect our province. That's why we are proud to provide funding to the City of Burlington for this new technology which will mean more calls will be answered, more lives will be saved and people across the city can count on emergency services when it matters most."
MPP for Burlington, Natalie Pierre
"This is fantastic news for Burlington Fire and the broader community. Through the Ontario government's investment in Next Generation 9-1-1, Burlington now has access to a modernized emergency communication system. This upgrade will enhance how emergency calls are managed, improve response times, and allow first responders to access more accurate information in moments that matter most."
MPP for Oakville North-Burlington, Effie Triantafilopoulos
"Keeping our communities safe starts with ensuring our first responders have access to the most advanced tools available. The implementation of Next Generation 9-1-1 in Burlington represents a significant step forward in modernizing emergency communications -- improving system reliability, strengthening cybersecurity, and preparing for future innovations like text and multimedia capabilities. I'm proud our government is supporting this nearly $3 million investment, and I commend Burlington Fire for their leadership in delivering this critical upgrade that will help protect residents across Burlington for years to come."
Mayor Marianne Meed Ward
"This investment will strengthen public safety in our community, and ensure calls get through providing backup capabilities, protection against cyber threats, and enable text communications in the future. I want to thank the Ontario government for their partnership and investment in this important public safety upgrade and recognize Burlington Fire Chief Boys and the entire team for ensuring this complex system upgrade was completed efficiently and without interrupting 9-1-1 service."
Ward 6 Councillor & Deputy Mayor for Recreation and Community Services, Angelo Bentivegna
"This investment in Next Generation 9-1-1 is an important step forward in modernizing public safety in our community. I want to thank Burlington Fire and all those involved for their dedication to delivering this upgrade while maintaining uninterrupted service."
Ward 2 Councillor Lisa Kearns
"Residents expect and deserve timely, effective emergency response, and Next Generation 9-1-1 helps strengthen our ability to deliver on that expectation. This upgrade reflects a strong partnership between the City and the Province, and I'm proud to see Burlington continue to invest in the safety and well-being of our community."
Fire Chief Drew Boys
"Delivering a complex, multi-channel system upgrade while maintaining uninterrupted 9-1-1 service reflects the professionalism and expertise of Burlington Fire. We remain focused on providing timely and effective emergency response. With highly trained Fire Communications professionals and modernized technology, we are well positioned to serve our community when it matters most."