Internet and cable-based telephones, also known as Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) or broadband telephones, look and function like traditional telephones, but use a high-speed internet or cable connection to make and receive calls. Like a computer, these phones are not associated with a fixed physical address. This can present challenges for emergency service providers, as some internet phones use technology that does not transfer important safety information such as home address and telephone numbers to 9-1-1 Centres.
9-1-1 calls placed from VoIP phones are generally routed to a third-party service provider that in turn transfers the call to the closest 9-1-1 centre, but without address information. BC Ambulance Service (BCAS) advises British Columbians who use internet or cable-based phones to contact their VoIP phone providers to find out what emergency features are included in their package or offered by the company.
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