Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow on Monday unveiled a plan to appoint hundreds of new police officers and dozens of new 911 operators across the city.
The announcement is part of the five -year hiring plan, which will see the Toronto Police Service growing in the first two years by 720 new officers. The city is also working to promote 911 response time amid long waiting.
According to the newly released data, the current average of 911 waiting time in Toronto is about 28 seconds. It is a drop from 2024, which is a minute and average of seven seconds. However, it is still longer than the standard prescribed by the National Emergency Number Association, which requires 90 percent calls within 15 seconds and 95 percent within 20 seconds.
In October 2024, Citynews told The delay in receiving the Toronto Police Service through 911 communication center was still prevalent for emergency assistance.
“When you need fast help in an emergency, you should not wait,” said Mayor Chow. “We are hiring more 911 operators and more emergency respondents so that you help when you need it. With investment in community programs, especially supporting young people, we are building a safe and strong city for all.”
Chow says that at least 60 emergency operators have been hired so far this year and the other 30 people are expected to join the team before 2026.
Toronto Police Service Board Chairman Don Valley North Counselor Shelly Carroll said, “With our landmark multi-earning plan, we are giving average results-911 response time from Teji, more officers on the road, and crime rates across the board.”
The latest data of Toronto Police and several GTA police forces show that crime rate has declined significantly in the last several years.
“This is a proof that when we invest in people and give them to the devices that they need, Toronto becomes a safe city for all,” Carol said.
