A unique addition to the WPSHC team is the Parry Sound Ambulance Communications Service (ACS), which is fully funded by the Ministry of Health and contracted to the West Parry Sound Health Centre.
Our skilled team of over 20 individuals plays a crucial role in ensuring quick, effective emergency responses, connecting people in urgent need with vital care. This team is active 24/7 and is always ready to respond to emergencies at a moment’s notice. As the first point of contact when you call 911 for health or fire services in the area, they quickly activate emergency responses, gather essential information, and provide clear, actionable instructions. Behind the scenes, they orchestrate the entire emergency response process, ensuring the right services are dispatched swiftly and accurately. These officers are the critical link between those in need and the emergency care that can make all the difference in life-saving situations.
When Calling 911 Prepare to Answer:
- What is your emergency?
- What is the location of the emergency?
- This includes your civic address, town/Municipality, Apartment/Access Code Information, Closest Major Intersection
- Provide the phone number you are calling from.
Be prepared to stay on the line to answer questions and follow the direction/advice/information being provided to you by the Communications Officer. Help is being dispatched simultaneously as more information is being collected.
Preparing in Advance of an Emergency
There are ways that you can prepare in advance of every having to call 911. In our area we have many recreational properties, which often have guests visiting. Our ACS team advising keeping the details about where your property is located in a prominent location, that can be shared with visiting guests. This includes your civic address, town/Municipality, apartment number /access code information and the closest major intersection.
You can also:
- Identify your home or cottage with an easily visible Civic Address Number (green and white sign).
- Make sure your civic number or house number is correct, and that family members and guests know the address, especially important for cell phone callers.
- Place the number where it is easily seen from the road, or if you are water access, place the number on the end of your dock.
- Ensure vegetation or snow does not obscure the sign visibility.