Emergency Services: An Introduction for New Canadians
Policing in Canada
Police are here to keep our community safe. Their job is to help in an emergency, maintain peace and order, prevent and investigate crime, and enforce laws.
Motor Vehicle Collisions
If you are involved in a motor vehicle collision:
- Remain calm
- Stop. If your vehicle is involved in a collision and you do not stop, you may face criminal charges
- Remain at the scene and help if possible
- Do not try to move anyone who is injured
- If the damage of all vehicles is more than $1,000 and/or people are injured, dial 9-1-1 immediately
- If the damage of all vehicles appears to be less than $1,000 and no one is injured, please call the non-emergency line: 705-949-6300
- If it is safe to do so, move your vehicle to the side of the road
- Obtain the names, addresses, and phone numbers of all drivers, passengers, and witnesses
Lost or Stolen Passports
If your Canadian passport has been lost or stolen:
- Contact the nearest Service Canada passport office or phone 1-800-567-6868 or TTY Services 1-866-255-7655
- Report the lost or stolen passport to Sault Ste. Marie Police Service
Calling 9-1-1
An emergency is any situation requiring immediate assistance from police, ambulance, or the fire department. Examples include:
- A serious crime such as an assault, break and enter, robbery, or firearm offence, especially if it is in progress
- A fire
- A motor vehicle collision, especially if anyone is injured
- A medical or life-threatening incident
If there is an emergency, please call 911.
If it is not an emergency but you still need assistance from police, ambulance, or fire, please call the non-emergency line at 705-949-6300.
Crime Stoppers
When you contact Crime Stoppers:
- You never have to provide your name
- Call display is never used
- You never have to testify in court
- You could receive a cash reward of up to $2,000 if your tip leads to an arrest
Phone: 705-942-7867
Toll Free: 1-800-222-8477
Free Mobile App: www.p3tips.com
Crime Prevention & Safety
Here are some tips to avoid committing crimes, becoming a victim of crime, and staying safe:
- Do not carry large amounts of cash or valuables; do not leave valuables in vehicle
- Walk on busy streets with lots of light
- Carry a cell phone in case of emergencies
- Wear bright or reflective clothing and only cross the road at designated crosswalks when it is safe to do so; avoid using cellphone or headphones while walking
- Avoid giving out personal information or sending money to people you do not know; educate yourself on common scams that may be used against you
- Do not send sensitive photos, personal, financial or confidential information via email, text, or online
- In Canada, it is illegal to physically harm a member of your family; it is also illegal to have sexual relations with anyone unless they consent, even within a marriage or relationship
- Drug possession, trafficking, or production can lead to a criminal record and possibly jail time
- It is illegal and dangerous to drive a motor vehicle when impaired by drugs or alcohol
For information on fraud and scams targeting newcomers to Canada, please click here.