Reserve 911 for Emergencies Only

Thunder Bay, ON (July 17, 2025) – In response to an unprecedented spate of weather-related emergencies—including localized flooding, multiple forest fires, record-breaking heat and treacherous driving conditions—the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) is reminding residents and travelers to stay informed through official channels and to reserve 911 strictly for life-threatening emergencies.

The OPP reports that emergency-line capacity is being stretched thin by calls seeking basic weather and road-condition information. 911 dispatchers must prioritize requests for immediate police, fire or medical assistance. For non-urgent matters, please use the dedicated non-emergency line below.

Where to Find Real-Time Updates

Stay ahead of changing conditions by consulting these authoritative sources:

• Weather Forecasts & Alerts:
  – Environment Canada: http://weather.gc.ca
  – The Weather Network: http://theweathernetwork.com

• Road Closures & Traffic Conditions:
  – Ontario 511: http://511on.ca
  – Municipal 511 (local road updates): http://municipal511.ca

• Marine Conditions:
  – Environment Canada Marine Weather: http://weather.gc.ca/marine

• Forest Fire Status:
  – Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources: http://ontario.ca/page/forest-fires
  – Ontario Forest Fire Information System

Key Phone Numbers

• Emergencies (police, fire, medical): Call 911

• Non-Emergencies (traffic complaints, suspicious activity, general inquiries): Call 1-888-310-1122

Tips for Staying Safe

• Monitor Local Media: Track updates on netnewsledger.com, regional TV and radio stations.

• Follow Official Social Media:
  – OPP: @OPP_COMM_LAKE (X/Twitter)
  – Local municipal and emergency-services accounts

• Plan Ahead: Check the forecast before travel, carry emergency kits and extra water.

• Drive for Conditions: Reduce speed, increase following distance and avoid flooded or fire-affected areas.

• Consider Postponing Travel: If weather warnings are in effect, delay non-essential trips until conditions improve.

The OPP thanks everyone for their cooperation and vigilance. By using the right resources and reporting channels, you help ensure that emergency services can respond swiftly to those in critical need. Together, we can weather these challenges and keep Ontario’s roads, waterways and communities safer.