Surrey Fire Services launches B.C.’s first Next Generation 9-1-1 service

Surrey Fire Services’ regional 9-1-1 dispatch centre has become the first in British Columbia to transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1), a major upgrade to Canada’s emergency communications network.

“Surrey is proud to lead the province in modernizing emergency communications,” said Mayor Brenda Locke. “This transition to Next Generation 9-1-1 reflects our commitment to innovation, public safety and ensuring our residents and communities across B.C. receive the fastest, most reliable emergency response possible.”

Completed on Sept. 24, the upgrade replaces legacy systems with a faster, more resilient IP-based network, paving the way for future capabilities like text, video and data sharing.

“This historic milestone highlights the City of Surrey’s commitment to public safety and begins a new era in emergency communications,” said Fire Chief Jason Cairney. “It ensures first responders have the tools and information they need when responding to critical incidents.”

The transition was led by Surrey Fire Services and supported by funding from a provincial grant administered by the Union of BC Municipalities. Surrey’s dispatch centre serves as the hub for emergency calls for more than 50 fire departments across the province.