Urgences-santé getting higher volume of calls in Montreal and Laval

Urgences-santé is reporting a higher-than-usual volume of calls for ambulance assistance in Montreal and Laval.

On Thursday, they put out a message on social networks, asking the public not to hesitate to call 911 if they feel a life is in danger.

They are however urging citizens to dial 811 first – allowing them to speak to a qualified nurse for guidance, or find a way to prioritize walk-in or appointment clinics.

They remind the population that 811 is a free, confidential, 24/7 telephone consultation service.

When someone dials 911, an operator asks questions to determine the urgency of the situation, and then contacts the appropriate police, fire or ambulance services.

Urgences-santé serves the Montreal and Laval regions.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published in French and translated by CityNews.