The Barrie Police Service has officially launched Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1), enhancing emergency communications and response times for the community.
NG9-1-1 represents a multi-stage transformative upgrade to the traditional 9-1-1 network. While the process for callers to connect with a 9-1-1 dispatcher remains the same, the technology driving the network offers several improvements:
- Faster access to accurate caller location and phone number data for emergency dispatchers
- Increased reliability and cyber security
- Additional backup capabilities in the event of a network failure
- Potential for real-time text and live emergency video calls in the future
The Ontario government has provided more than $2.6 million since 2022 to support the Barrie Police Service’s transition to NG9-1-1.
“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. 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 Barrie Police Service 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.”
NG9-1-1 will strengthen emergency response by improving the quality and speed of information shared with dispatchers and helping first responders better assess situations before arriving on scene.
“These upgrades are an important step forward for our community,” said Monique Boucher, Communications Administrator with Barrie Police Service. “The new network will allow the public to give our operators more detailed information in an emergency, helping both police and fire respond more effectively. These improvements won’t change how residents contact 9-1-1 today—they can continue to call the emergency line as usual.”
“The Barrie Police Service welcomes these technology upgrades as an important step in strengthening emergency response capabilities and continuing to provide the highest level of service to the community,” stated Barrie Police Chief Rich Johnston.
“Next Generation 9‑1‑1 represents another important step to better serve our residents in emergencies—when seconds matter,” noted Deputy Fire Chief Eric MacFadden.
