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7 Emergency Numbers That Could Save Your Life

Updated: Aug 28, 2023



The following list of emergency service phone numbers serves as your survival guide for any crisis. Bookmark it. Share it. Store these numbers in your phone. Professional help is just a phone call away.


911: Your Primary Lifeline

In life-threatening situations, 911 is the main emergency number to use anywhere in North America. Whether you’re witnessing a crime or a medical crisis, dialing 911 will connect you to emergency services. Check out the BC government for useful ideas on how to teach your children about ringing 911 in case of an emergency

Vancouver Non-Emergency Number: 604-717-3321

What if you don't have a life-threatening situation at hand, but a more minor disturbance like a suspicious man hanging around your street?

Perhaps you're dealing with excessive noise disturbances from your neighbors and you're unsure who to call, or there's an incident of a coyote or bear in your area?

In Vancouver, you can call the non-emergency police number which is 604-717-3321.

Peruse the official RCMP (Royal Canadian Mounted Police) page to find the non-emergency number in your local area.

1-800-Suicide Hotline: 1-800-784-2433

Dial 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433) if you or someone you know is considering suicide. The voice at the other end of the line won't provide a magic solution, but they will offer a listening ear and a viewpoint filled with empathy and guidance.

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

Call the Poison Control Centre when someone has been exposed to a poisonous substance - this includes ingestion of household cleaning products, an overdose of medication, or exposure to toxic gasses.

Remember, poisons lurk in unexpected places, stealthily hidden in our household items like bleach, detergents or fertilizers, so you can never be too prepared. Call 1-800-567-8911 to reach the BC Poison Control where an operator is ready to dispense poison advice 24/7.


You can also find comprehensive information on preventing poisonings over on the BC Drug and Poison Information Centre website.

HealthLink BC: 8-1-1

Access free health advice from nurses, pharmacists and dietitians by calling HealthLink BC at 8-1-1. Whether you have a nagging cold or a more pertinent question, you should use this free resource and look at their website for health topics.

BC Mental Health Support Line: 310-6789

If you or someone else is struggling with a mental health issue, reach out to the BC Mental Health Support Line at 310-6789 (no area code needed).

This line is for all individuals from all walks of life — for seniors, students and adults, anyone else feeling overwhelmed by life's complexities.

VictimLink BC: 1-800-563-0808

VictimLink is a confidential and toll-free number for those in immediate crisis and victims of family and sexual violence. Contact 1-800-563-0808 for assistance.


Important phone numbers you need to know in B.C.


In summary:

  • Emergency Services Number: 9-1-1

  • Vancouver Non-Emergency Number: 604-717-3321

  • 1-800-Suicide Hotline: 1-800-784-243

  • BC Poison Control Centre: 1-800-567-8911

  • HealthLink BC: 8-1-1

  • BC Mental Health Support Line at 310-6789 (no area code required)

  • VictimLink BC: 1-800-563-0808


In case of an emergency, every second counts - and having essential emergency numbers at your fingertips may be the difference between life or death.



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