Not long after Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) upgraded its traditional 911 system, the Kitchener Fire Department is looking to do the same, integrating its new Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) service.
The local department stated it has implemented the new digital technology, looking to provide critical improvements to its previous, traditional system.
“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.”
It comes as the Kitchener Fire Department’s Dispatch Emergency Community Centre provides dispatch services for the departments of 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.
The improvements come following over $650,000 in funding since 2022 to support the department’s transition to NG9-1-1, hoping it will help improve response times and better align the department to grow and adapt alongside the growth expected across Waterloo Region over the coming years.
While it’s an improvement for the local fire department, being among the first fire Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) across Ontario to implement the service, WRPS made the jump 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.”