Toronto Police Launch New Text-Back System to Cut 911 Delays and Pocket Dials

Toronto police launch new text-back system to cut 911 delays and pocket dials

Toronto police say a new text-back feature for disconnected 911 calls could significantly reduce wait times for people in real emergencies — especially as accidental pocket dials accounted for nearly one-third of all calls last year.

New Toronto police 911 digital system now online amid efforts to lower wait times

As of May 22, 2025, the Toronto Police Service 911 communications centre's next-generation system will send text messages for call-backs.

Credit: DR The Toronto Police Service is launching an important update of its 911 system to help improve response times, in the context of an update in several phases called Next Generation 911. From Thursday (22), a new text will be sent to the phones that connect to 911 and deduce, asking if help is needed. Previously, it was necessary that the call provider be back manually to ensure that the person was safe. Sarah Mardus, coordinator of the …