The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is reminding the public of the importance of only dialing 9-1-1 in an emergency.

The RCMP is reporting an increase in prank 9-1-1 calls from youth. What may seem like a harmless practical joke creates a serious public safety risk, with repercussions that can include criminal charges.

Prank calls pose significant risks to the public, including:

• Diverting critical resources away from actual life-threatening situations;
• Delaying response times; and
• Undermining public trust in the 9-1-1 service.

Parents, caregivers and educators are urged to remind youth that 9-1-1 should only be used in an emergency when immediate help is required from emergency services. It is also important to note that when a child is given a cellular phone without a SIM card or voice plan, the phone is still able to call 9-1-1.

Resources are available to help teach youth about the importance of using 9-1-1 appropriately.

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