Calgary is ready for the future of 9-1-1
Calgary 9-1-1 has successfully transitioned to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1), marking a significant milestone in this federally mandated, multi-phase upgrade to Canada’s emergency communications system.
NG9-1-1 replaces legacy 9-1-1 systems across Canada with a faster, more resilient Internet Protocol (IP)-based network that is capable of transmitting both voice and data. This upgrade paves the way for new 9-1-1 services in the future such as real-time text messaging and other advanced tools that will provide quicker and more accessible communication for Canadians and first responders during emergencies. While the Federal Government advises these enhancements are still several years away, Calgary’s successful transition to NG9-1-1 ensures The City is ready to adopt new services as they’re rolled out across Canada in the years ahead.
The transition to NG9-1-1 does not change how Calgarians connect with 9-1-1. In an emergency, residents should continue to call 9-1-1 for police, fire, or ambulance services, just as they do today.
“We are proud to be taking this important step forward in modernizing Calgary’s emergency communications system and preparing for the future of 9-1-1 in Canada”, said Dan Heyde, Deputy Chief of Operations, Calgary 9-1-1. “When the new features become available, our technology and our team will be ready.”
In addition to laying the foundation for future services, the new system brings several behind-the-scenes improvements, including enhanced cybersecurity, increased network resilience, and expanded backup capabilities.
The Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC) has directed all Public Safety Answering Points (PSAPs) in Canada to migrate emergency calls to the NG9-1-1 network by March 31, 2027. Calgary 9-1-1 completed the transition on October 30, 2025, well ahead of the national deadline. Once all PSAPs have made the switch to NG9-1-1, further details about the timeline for the rollout of new services and tools are expected.
This milestone was made possible thanks to the dedication of The City’s NG9-1-1 project team and Calgary 9-1-1 employees, with support from our City and regional partners, and in collaboration with our telecommunications partners - TELUS and Intrado.
Calgary 9-1-1 answers more than one million calls each year, making us one of the largest PSAPs in western Canada. Our team of highly trained Emergency Communications Officers serve as the critical link between residents and the emergency support they need, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
For more information about NG9-1-1 in Canada, visit: Next-generation 9-1-1 | CRTC
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