During an emergency, several services may attend the same location. Understanding their broad roles can help residents follow instructions and provide useful information.
Police
Police address immediate public-safety threats, criminal concerns, scene security, traffic control and other law-enforcement responsibilities.
The precise role depends on the event.
Fire services
Fire services respond to fires, rescues, hazardous conditions and other emergencies within their mandate. They also provide fire-prevention education.
Municipal fire services publish local preparedness and safety information.
Paramedics
Paramedics assess and provide medical care and transportation when required.
Give call-takers accurate information about the person’s condition and location.
Coordination
Large incidents may involve municipal, regional, provincial, utility, public-health and community partners.
Residents should follow the instructions of the service responsible for the immediate safety issue.
Do not obstruct the response
Keep access routes clear, avoid entering restricted areas and do not livestream or publish sensitive images from the scene.