06/30/2026
**Did You Know? Your Smartphone or Smartwatch May Automatically Call 911 After a Serious Impact**
Many newer smartphones and smartwatches include **Crash Detection**, a safety feature that can automatically call 911 if the device detects a severe impact. It can also share your location with emergency responders, often within just a few metres, and notify your emergency contacts.
Crash Detection is a valuable safety tool that has helped save lives. However, false alerts can happen. These may be triggered by a dropped phone, recreational activities, sudden impacts, a device falling from a moving vehicle, or even accidentally driving over it.
First responders across Canada receive these calls on a regular basis.
If your device activates a crash alert and you are safe:
* Cancel the emergency call immediately if you are able to do so.
* If 911 calls you back, stay on the line and let the dispatcher know what happened. Tell them whether you are safe or if you need assistance.
* Keep your emergency contacts up to date so they can be notified if a real emergency occurs.
A few seconds of communication can prevent unnecessary emergency responses and help keep emergency resources available for those who truly need them.
Over the past couple of months, we have responded to several Crash Detection calls, ranging from serious emergencies to accidental activations. While we appreciate the benefits of this technology, we encourage everyone to familiarize themselves with how it works.
If you choose to disable Crash Detection, you can do so in your device's settings. Please note that after some software updates, this feature may be re-enabled, so it's a good idea to check your settings periodically.
