911 National Emergency / 811 Health Line / 9-8-8 Crisis Line
Canada Emergency Numbers: 911, 811 HealthLine & Crisis Lines Guide 2026
Complete guide to Canadian emergency numbers: 911 (national emergency), 811 (provincial health advice line), 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline, and 211 (social services referral).
Overview
In Canada, 911 is the national emergency number for police, fire, and ambulance services, mandated by the CRTC. The 811 health advice line (8-1-1) is operated by provincial health authorities and connects callers to registered nurses 24/7. Canada's 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline launched November 2023, providing 24/7 crisis support. 211 connects Canadians to community, social, and government services.
Key Facts & Statutory Reference
| Item | Detail | Statutory / Official Source |
|---|---|---|
| 911 | National emergency — Police, Fire, Ambulance (free, 24/7) | CRTC Telecom Decision 99-17 |
| 811 | Provincial health advice line — nurses 24/7 | Provincial Health Authorities (varies) |
| 9-8-8 | Suicide Crisis Helpline (launched Nov 2023) | Health Canada / Bell Canada |
| 211 | Social services referral — housing, food, community | 211 Canada Network |
| 311 | Municipal non-emergency services (major cities) | City municipalities |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
811 is a provincially operated telephone health advice line staffed by registered nurses 24/7. Anyone in the province — residents, visitors, and newcomers — can call for free health advice without visiting a clinic. It is available in multiple languages in most provinces.
Yes. Canada's 9-8-8 Suicide Crisis Helpline is fully bilingual, providing services in both English and French. It is available by phone and text 24 hours a day, 7 days a week across all provinces and territories.