Know your exact address when calling 911 from Northeastern BC, as dispatch moves over 1,000 KM away
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Fort St. John and Dawson Creek residents are being warned to be ready with exact intersections and addresses if they call 911 to report an emergency.
Fire dispatch operations officially moved from northeastern BC to Campbell River on Vancouver Island yesterday morning after the Peace River Regional District voted to accept a proposal for service from North Island 911, which is based in Campbell River.
Fire Chief Fred Burrows says when dispatch was handled locally, residents could describe a location as “10 minutes past the red barn on ABC Road,” but he says now they must know the exact location of the emergency so dispatchers on the Island can help them.
When the switch was made yesterday, professional firefighters in Fort St. John issued a statement saying they are strongly against the change but will work with dispatchers in Campbell River to ensure the transition is handled professionally and in the best interests of the community.
