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Milton Fire & Rescue Services has transitioned to Next Generation 9-1-1 (NG9-1-1), a modern network that improves the speed, service, and reliability of Milton’s emergency communications network.

For Milton callers, NG9-1-1 will make the emergency response process faster, clearer, and more reliable. The upgrade reflects the Town of Milton’s goal of modernizing its services, as well as its digital transformation strategy.

“Upgrading Ontario’s public safety communications will be a game changer,” said Hon. Michael Kerzner, Solicitor General of Ontario.

“Next Generation 9-1-1 gives first responders real-time, life-saving information which means a faster, more effective emergency response. Under the leadership of Premier Ford, our government will always have the backs of those who protect our province. That’s why we are proud to provide funding to Milton Fire and Rescue 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.”

NG9-1-1 updates Canada’s 9-1-1 network by replacing aging analog infrastructure with a secure, digital network that improves call routing and location accuracy. It also prepares the service for future features such as sharing real-time text, data, video, and multimedia.

“Milton Fire and Rescue Services is proud to launch Next Generation 9-1-1, a major step in strengthening public safety and delivering faster, more reliable emergency response,” said Peter Gatto, Chief, Milton Fire & Rescue Services.

“NG9-1-1 improves call routing, boosts location accuracy, and enhances information sharing so we can respond quickly when seconds count. This milestone was made possible through our strong partnership with the Halton Regional Police Service and their commitment to innovation.”

Milton’s transition to NG9-1-1 involved coordination with the Halton Regional Police Service. The Ontario government has provided close to $2.5 million since 2022 to support Milton Fire & Rescue Service’s transition to NG9-1-1.

“Investing in modern emergency response systems is essential to keeping our growing community safe,” said Gord Krantz, Mayor, Town of Milton. “NG9-1-1 strengthens Milton’s emergency communications and ensures that residents continue to receive reliable, efficient service when they need it most.”

What NG9-1-1 means for residents

The move to NG9-1-1 will not interrupt current service as it brings several improvements:

  • Calls will connect more quickly because NG9-1-1 routes them through a modern digital network designed to reduce delays and busy signals.
  • Location information will be more precise, helping responders reach the exact address or incident location faster. This is especially important when callers are on cell phones or unsure of their location.
  • The system is more resilient, reducing the likelihood of service outages caused by equipment failures or extreme weather.
  • Future features such as text messaging, video calling, and data sharing will eventually allow callers to send photos, live video, or medical information directly to emergency operators, improving how they can respond to critical events.
  • After-hours callers will be able to receive information about after-hours services, resources, and support through an AI agent, with staff still available for complex or urgent needs.