It appears that some people on Vancouver Island have no idea when it’s appropriate to call 911.
According to E-Comm, the organization overseeing emergency communication in B.C., their emergency communication centre on Vancouver Island is seeing an influx of 911 calls related to the Trans-Canada Highway closure through the Mahalat.
“We know these are extenuating circumstances but [please] remember 9-1-1 is not an information line,” E-Comm said in a tweet.
E-Comm also went on to remind people that 911 is “not an information line” but for police, fire or medical emergencies when “immediate action is required” such as if someone’s health, safety or property is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress.
In addition to placing bad 911 calls, some Islanders’ poor judgement also goes beyond the phone lines.
West Shore RCMP said Wednesday that construction flaggers working along the Malahat have taken “unacceptable verbal” abuse from some motorists.
“Let’s all support crews working by avoiding travel on the #Malahat if you don’t have to,” West Shore RCMP said on social media.
The major artery linking Greater Victoria to communities north of the Malahat was at one point severed after sections of it filled up with water and crumbled Monday.
Overnight closures are in place until at least Nov. 22 while traffic during the day is limited to “essential travel only” with vehicles alternating to a single-lane for 30-minute intervals.
B.C. has declared a state of emergency following devastating flooding that as hit the Mainland and parts of Vancouver Island, resulting in major highways crumbling or being completely destroyed.
Still unsure how 911 works? You can visit https://www.ecomm911.ca/911-dispatch/when-to-call/ which provides a guideline on when to 911 or whether you should call a non-emergency line.
RELATED: Malahat Highway to close overnight for repairs following flooding
Nicholas Pescod
