Montreal police urge citizens not to call 9-1-1 for wind-related damage

As Montreal continues to get thrashed with 100+ km/h winds and power outages, Montreal police are urging citizens not to use 9-1-1 to report damages to their homes.

The Service de police de la Ville de Montreal (SPVM) sent out a notification on their social channels telling the public that the emergency number should be used for “traffic hazards” and problems relating to safety.

• See also:
  • 37 regions across Quebec are currently under weather alerts
  • More than 72,000 Quebecers without power this morning as storm rages on
  • Desjardins breach much larger than expected with 4.2M now confirmed affected

According to SPVM’s twitter, 9-1-1 is receiving an influx of calls because of the high winds. Citizens dealing with property damaged are reminded to alert their insurance providers.

911 is currently receiving a lot of calls because of the high winds. To report material damage to your property, contact your insurance. A police report is not required. If there is a traffic hazard or the safety of people is at risk, contact 911. Thank you for your collaboration pic.twitter.com/pkt69C993u

— Police Montréal (@SPVM) November 1, 2019