Use Special Numbers

The following steps explain how to use three-digit numbers for special services (i.e. directory assistance, public services, emergency services).

2-1-1 - More information

• For more information on 2-1-1 services, please see http://www.211canada.ca/.

4-1-1 - More information

• For more information on Directory Assistance services please go to www.canada411.ca or http://www.whitepages.ca/.

4-1-1 - Access Directory Assistance

1. Dial 4-1-1 or 1-NPA-555-1212.
   • For international Directory Assistance, dial 0.
   • Toll free directory assistance, dial 1 800-555-1212 (No charge).
   • You can also access www.canada411.ca or http://www.whitepages.ca/ websites as an alternative to calling 411.
2. You will hear the following interactive prompts.
   • "Directory assistance, for what city please?" Then you say the name of the city. OR
   • "Thank you, for what name please?" You say the name of the person or business.
3. A live Operator will then either activate the automated recording to pronounce the number or ask you more questions to help find the number.
   • You may request a listing based on at least city and last name. Further information may also be required.
   • Every effort will be made to retrieve listing information based on the data provided.
   • Operators can accept up to 3 requests per call. Each request is charged separately.
   • If you request listing information and in the same call would like to verify some other information (ex: Is the address 152 Erkshire?), there will be no charge if you already have correct information. If the information is not correct and the operator provides you the correct information, another charge will be applied.

9-1-1

• If you dial 9-1-1 by mistake, stay on the line to let the operator know you have made a mistake. Otherwise, the operator may assume you are in distress and dispatch the emergency service unnecessarily.
• To report a crime, call the police or local detachment of the RCMP, however, if it is urgent, call 9-1-1.
• To anonymously report a crime you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

What is 9-8-8 emergency service?

The US is implementing a 9-8-8 number on July 16, 2022. It’s a nationwide mental health crisis phone number for people to connect with suicide prevention and mental health crisis counselors. This number is not available in Canada yet, but help is still available.

Reach Canada Suicide Prevention Services (CSPS) at the toll-free number 1-(833-) 456-4566. Help is also available by text message:

• Adults text: 741741
• Youths text: 686868
• Quebec residents text: 1-(855-) 957-5353