Photo Supplied by Peterborough Police Service
Emergency services in Peterborough now have quicker and more reliable access to critical information, following the City’s transition to the Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1) network.
The upgraded digital system, which replaces older 9-1-1 infrastructure with an internet protocol-based network, allows emergency dispatchers to receive faster and more accurate caller location data and phone numbers. It also introduces stronger cybersecurity protections, improved network reliability, and future-ready features such as real-time text and live video calls.
Peterborough is among the first municipalities in Ontario to adopt the NG9-1-1 platform. The provincial government has provided more than $5 million since 2022 to support the transition.
“Under the leadership of Premier Ford, we are upgrading Ontario’s public safety communications to NG9-1-1 which will empower first responders and provide them with critical, life-saving information meaning a faster, more effective emergency response,” said Ontario Solicitor General Michael Kerzner. “We will always have the backs of those who protect Ontario. That’s why we are proud to provide funding to Peterborough 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.”
Local officials say the investment directly benefits residents and frontline responders.
“The transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 is a monumental step forward, ensuring that our first responders have the most accurate and immediate information possible,” said Peterborough-Kawartha MPP Dave Smith. “This significant investment from the Ontario government means more efficient response times, enhanced safety for our residents, and ultimately, more lives saved.”
Peterborough Mayor Jeff Leal added, “This support ensures our emergency responders have access to the advanced tools and technology they need to act quickly and effectively in an emergency. I would like to thank the Province of Ontario for this critical investment in public safety.”
Frontline emergency leaders say the benefits of NG9-1-1 are already making a difference.
“Having reliable access to critical information, like the exact location of a caller and a verified callback number, can make all the difference when seconds count,” said Peterborough Fire Chief Chris Snetsinger. “These enhanced capabilities help our first responders arrive faster, communicate more effectively and ultimately save lives.”
Peterborough Police Chief Stuart Betts echoed that sentiment: “Ensuring safety for everyone in our community is our main goal as a police service. Being able to deploy first responders at the right time, with the right information to do the right thing, is what we strive for every shift. NG9-1-1 will help us accomplish this goal with even more accuracy.”
The process for calling 9-1-1 remains the same. Callers in Peterborough, the Village of Lakefield, and the Township of Cavan Monaghan will continue to be routed through the Peterborough Police Communications Centre, which acts as the Primary Public Safety Answering Point (PPSAP) for the region.
In 2024, the centre fielded 42,637 calls, with over 22,000 routed to police, more than 18,000 to ambulance, and 1,553 to fire. Communications staff continue to meet national standards, answering over 93% of calls within 15 seconds.
(Written by: Scott Arnold)
