Windsor police and fire services will now share a 911 dispatch space, both agencies announced Thursday.
The move brings together staff, equipment and technology into a single location, located within the Windsor police dispatch centre, with the goal of improving co-ordination and communication.
“This co-location represents a significant advancement in how emergency services collaborate to keep our community safe,” said Karel DeGraaf, deputy chief of operational support for the Windsor Police Service.
“The integration of our technologies enhances situational awareness while maintaining the independence of each service.”
It also comes ahead of emergency services’ transition to “next generation 911” services, or NG 911. It’s an internet based service, and Windsor is one of 26 in Ontario that is ready for the change ahead of the March 2027 deadline imposed by the Canadian Radio-television Telecommunication Commission (CRTC).
The NG 911- service will improve reliability while providing more accurate caller locations, the statement from police and fire says.
Windsor police upgraded their 911 centre infrastructure, including workspaces, equipment and technology, ahead of the change.
"These updates will greatly assist fire communications staff as we continue to evolve with the needs of the community,” said Windsor fire chief James Waffle.
“Working side by side with police improves coordination during complex emergencies and strengthens the service we provide to the public.”