We want to make sure that you are aware of important differences in the way 911 service operates with a VoIP phone when compared with traditional telephone service.
Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
Differences between Traditional 911 Service and VoIP phone 911
With traditional phone services, your 911 call is sent directly to the nearest emergency response centre. With VoIP phone service, your 911 call is forwarded to a third-party service provider that will automatically or manually route your call to the emergency response centre.
Remember to Verify Your Location
Because you can move your VoIP phone between locations and because, for technical reasons, the emergency operator may not have your name, location or contact information available, you must immediately inform the emergency operator of your location and contact particulars any time you call 911. Do not risk sending police or ambulance services to the wrong location.
Be Prepared during any Service Interruption
VoIP phone service depends not only on your continued subscription (and payment) for the service, but also on Internet connectivity and power to function. In the event of power, network, or Internet outages (including congestion), or if your service is disconnected or suspended due to non-payment, you may experience a failure, disruption or delay in your 911 service. We recommend that you keep an alternative phone service (such as a cellular telephone) handy to increase the reliability of your access to emergency services during any service interruption.
Do Not Disconnect
Until you are told to do so by an emergency dispatcher, do not disconnect your 911 call. If you are inadvertently disconnected, call back immediately.
Keep Your Service Address Up to Date
Interface will attempt to provide the emergency operator with your service address, so please ensure that your information on file with us is always accurate and updated. If you do not do this (for example, if you are unable to speak during a 911 call), the emergency operator may assume that you are calling from the last registered address.
Inform Other Users
You must notify members of your household and other potential users of your VoIP phone service of the nature and limitations of 911 emergency calls. To make this easier, attach the included stickers in a visible location on your telephone sets.
Limitations of Liability
Interface’s terms of service limit and disclaim liability related to VoIP 911 service, so please read these carefully. You can read more about the 9-1-1 Obligations of Local VoIP Service Providers in Canada here.