Image: File image of an E-Comm operator taking a 9-1-1 call. / Supplied by E-Comm

By Fraser Valley Today Staff

Top Ten List

A complaint about a neighbour’s cologne tops the list of worst reasons to call 9-1-1 in 2024

Dec 30, 2024 | 9:06 AM

CHILLIWACK — A neighbour’s stinky cologne and a box of rotten avocados are among the bizarre reasons people called 9-1-1 in 2024, according to E-Comm, which handles about two million emergency calls annually across British Columbia.

To highlight the importance of reserving 9-1-1 for emergencies, E-Comm released its annual list of the top 10 unusual calls. The list includes complaints about dry cleaning mishaps, technical support requests, and directions to a 24-hour pharmacy.

E-Comm says it understands that some situations might feel urgent in the moment, but 9-1-1 is not the appropriate number to call if your power goes out or you need tech support. “By directing your non-urgent calls to the appropriate resources such as your local police non-emergency line, you are helping to ensure our call takers are available for real emergency situations,” said a 911 operator identified as Kuzivakwashe.

The unusual 2024 calls included a request for help removing a wasp nest, a complaint about McDonald’s not opening its doors, and concerns over a domesticated-looking bunny in a park.

E-Comm is urging the public to use 9-1-1 responsibly and direct non-urgent matters to appropriate resources, such as local police non-emergency lines.

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“Most people do use 9-1-1 responsibly, and we absolutely want the public to call for help when they need it in an emergency,” said Kuzivakwashe.

9-1-1 is for police, fire or medical emergencies when immediate action is required. Use it when someone’s health, safety or property is in jeopardy or a crime is in progress. When calling 9-1-1 you should always know your location to assist emergency services personnel in reaching you quickly. Never text 9-1-1, always call. And if you do call 9-1-1 accidently, stay on the line to speak with the operator.

Emergencies requiring immediate police, fire, or medical assistance should remain the sole focus of 9-1-1 calls, the organization stressed. For non-urgent issues, E-Comm encourages visiting nonemergency.ca for alternative reporting options.

Top 10 List of Calls that did NOT belong on 9-1-1 in 2024

1. Their neighbour was wearing too much cologne

2. The dry cleaners stained their shirt

3. McDonald’s wouldn’t open their doors

4. They wanted directions to a 24/7 Shoppers Drug Mart

5. Complaining the power was out

6. Requesting technical support

7. The box of 38 avocados they purchased were rotten

8. They left their phone in an Uber

9. Requesting help removing a wasp nest

10. There was a domesticated-looking bunny in the park