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7 Emergency Phone Numbers for BC Residents That Could Save Your Life

  • Writer: Meera Gill
    Meera Gill
  • Aug 2, 2023
  • 3 min read

Updated: Oct 23

comic-style illustration showing a glowing smartphone and emergency vehicles with flashing red and blue lights, representing key emergency phone numbers for BC residents including police, ambulance, and fire services

New to BC? Or simply want the peace of mind knowing that you know what to do in case of emergency? The following list of emergency phone numbers for BC residents serves as your quick-access guide for any crisis. Bookmark it, share it, and store these numbers in your phone. In an emergency, professional help is always one call away.



Emergency Phone Numbers for BC Residents

(Save These In Your Phone!)

Service

Number

Purpose

Emergency Services

911

For life-threatening emergencies

Vancouver Police Non-Emergency

604-717-3321

Non-urgent police matters

Suicide Crisis Helpline

9-8-8

Mental health crisis or suicidal thoughts

BC Poison Control Centre

1-800-567-8911

Exposure to toxic substances

HealthLink BC

8-1-1

Free health advice from professionals

BC Mental Health Support Line

310-6789

Emotional and mental health support

VictimLink BC

1-800-563-0808

Family or sexual violence assistance

In an emergency, every second counts. Having these emergency phone numbers for BC residents saved in your contacts could make the difference between confusion and quick, life-saving action.




Who Do You Call In An Emergency in BC, Canada?


911 – Your Primary Lifeline


The most important Emergency Phone Number for BC Residents to remember is 911. In any life-threatening situation, 911 is the main emergency number to use anywhere in North America. Whether you’re witnessing a crime, medical emergency, or fire, dialing 911 connects you immediately with emergency services.


The BC government also offers helpful resources on teaching children how and when to call 911.



Vancouver Police Non-Emergency Line – 604-717-3321


If your situation isn’t urgent but still requires police attention — such as suspicious activity, a noise disturbance, or a coyote sighting — call 604-717-3321, the Vancouver non-emergency police line.


For residents outside Vancouver, visit the RCMP’s non-emergency contact page to find the correct number for your area.



Suicide Crisis Helpline – 9-8-8 (Replaces 1-800-SUICIDE)


If you or someone you know is in distress, dial 9-8-8, Canada’s new Suicide Crisis Helpline. Trained responders offer confidential, judgment-free support 24/7.


If your phone system still uses older listings, 1-800-784-2433 will connect you to the same network.



BC Poison Control Centre – 1-800-567-8911


Call 1-800-567-8911 if someone has been exposed to a toxic substance, accidentally ingested medication, or inhaled fumes.


The BC Drug and Poison Information Centre provides 24-hour guidance on what to do next and how to keep the person stable until help arrives.


Poisons can hide in everyday items like cleaning products, fertilizers, or detergents — quick access to expert advice could prevent a tragedy.



HealthLink BC – 8-1-1


For non-urgent health questions, call 8-1-1 to reach HealthLink BC, where nurses, pharmacists, and dietitians are available for free.


You can ask about symptoms, medications, or where to find medical care in your area. The HealthLink BC website also lists hundreds of helpful health topics.



BC Mental Health Support Line – 310-6789


If you or someone close to you is struggling with mental health challenges, call 310-6789 (no area code needed).


This provincial support line connects you with trained responders offering emotional support, referrals, and local resources. It’s open to everyone — students, seniors, parents, and anyone facing a tough moment.



VictimLink BC – 1-800-563-0808


VictimLink BC is a confidential, toll-free service for people in immediate crisis or experiencing family or sexual violence. Call 1-800-563-0808 for 24-hour help, safety planning, and referrals to local shelters and legal aid.


Legal: Emergency contact information can change over time. Always verify the latest numbers on official provincial or municipal websites before relying on them. If you notice that any number listed here has been updated, please reach out through our contact page.



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