BC Emergency Health Services, all police agencies, and 18 fire departments across Metro Vancouver and Abbotsford rely on E-Comm’s radio network to communicate critical information. TransLink operating companies (Coast Mountain Bus Company and BC Rapid Transit Company) also depend on E-Comm to ensure seamless, real-time communication across agencies and locations, keeping first responders and essential services coordinated when it matters most.

February 13 marks World Radio Day, and E-Comm recognizes the team responsible for maintaining the radio system most critical to public and first responder safety. Unlike other systems across North America, E-Comm’s radio is managed entirely in-house by its very own wireless team, offering constant visibility into system health and the ability to resolve issues quickly.

Meet Dave Cameron, Senior Wireless Platform Specialist

Dave Cameron has been fascinated by two-way radio since childhood and has been an avid amateur radio operator since 1993. Always more interested in understanding how systems work than simply using them, Dave built a strong technical foundation that would later shape his career.

Although he holds a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering, his passion for radio communications—combined with experience in electrical power systems and project management—led him to join E-Comm in 2014 as a Project Manager with the Next Generation Radio Program. Most recently, Dave transitioned into the role of Wireless Platform Specialist, where he continues to support and strengthen E-Comm’s critical public safety radio network.

Dave is an integral member of the team who spent over five years specializing in radio interference, developing an innovative, cost-effective system to detect it, assess its potential impact, and pinpoint likely sources. While similar solutions exist, Dave designed and built a system in-house to meet E-Comm’s unique operational needs.

This radio system exists for a reason

When the Stanley Cup riot broke out in 1994, a surge of radio traffic overwhelmed first responder systems. First responders couldn’t communicate with one another because they operated on separate networks, making it difficult to coordinate their response. This incident led to the birth of E-Comm and a new regional radio system.

Protecting the airwaves

Most people never think about radio systems until something goes wrong.

Imagine a firefighter inside a burning building pressing the push-to-talk button to order an evacuation. There’s no room for interference or time for delay. Every transmission must go through—and that’s where the wireless team comes in.

Part of their work involves tracking and eliminating radio frequency interference (signals that can compete with or disrupt emergency communications). Using innovative, in-house software defined radios (SDRs) installed at tower sites, the team can detect interference early, assess its impact and trace it to its source.

The frequencies used by E-Comm’s system were repurposed from over-the-air TV channels in 2004. Some older devices, like wireless microphones or speakers, still operate on those bands and can unintentionally cause interference—another reason why constant monitoring is essential.

Did you know that trees can also create interference? Our wireless technicians can navigate specialized drones through heavily forested areas to identify the exact GPS coordinates of trees or branches interfering with the airwaves.

Maintaining clear and open frequencies is key to making sure the airwaves stay clear for the voices that need to be heard the most.

Celebrating the Wireless Team on World Radio Day

The Wireless team is made up of members like Dave who play a critical role in the infrastructure that supports public safety. On World Radio Day, we celebrate those behind the technology that connect first responders when it matters the most.

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This year’s list of BC’s Top Employers has been announced, naming E-Comm 9-1-1 to the list.

BC’s Top Employers is an annual editorial competition that recognizes the British Columbia employers leading their industries in creating exceptional workplaces. Each year, the competition’s editors evaluate organizations based on eight key criteria, highlighting the most progressive and forward-thinking programs. Winners are announced in a special online magazine co-published with The Vancouver Sun, featuring detailed reasons for selection to provide transparency and showcase best practices.

At the heart of this recognition is E-Comm’s incredible team of emergency communications professionals, technology experts and corporate services staff, who support public safety and communities across British Columbia every day. Featured in this year’s profile is Karli, who shared her experience working at E-Comm:

“When you have done all you can to be there for someone in need, there is a real sense of pride and accomplishment at the end of your shift. You know you helped someone in a really tough moment.”

This recognition underscores E-Comm’s ongoing commitment to its employees and its mission to provide critical support to first responders across British Columbia.

Learn more about career opportunities at E-Comm here. See the full list of BC’s Top Employers here.

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The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials (APCO) Canada has recognized E-Comm employees with two prestigious national awards for exemplary efforts in emergency communications.

Outstanding response and coordination to “firestorm” in Vancouver

The Team Award recognizes members of E-Comm’s Fire Dispatch team for their extraordinary level of professionalism, remarkable coordination and unwavering resilience during one of the most challenging fire response operations in E-Comm’s history.

Fire Charge Dispatcher Corey Kelso and Fire Dispatcher Gurvinder Sandhu with the APCO Team Award

On August 6, 2024 the Fire Dispatch team managed multiple large structure fires across Vancouver, resulting in a flood of 9-1-1 calls to E-Comm. The unprecedented situation included a four-alarm blaze that spread to eight homes, followed by reports of explosions and a crane collapse, creating immense pressure on all involved.

Despite these challenges, the team on shift rose to the occasion, coordinating closely with E-Comm call takers, Vancouver Police Dispatch team, multiple fire departments and partner agencies, ensuring units were deployed safely and effectively. Their teamwork and professionalism enabled a rapid, coordinated response that minimized risk to both the public and first responders, exemplifying the very best of emergency communications.

“The E-Comm Fire Dispatch team is so deserving of this national recognition for their outstanding work coordinating the emergency response during the Dunbar fire, a fire so large that it created its own firestorm,” says Vancouver Fire Rescue Services Fire Chief Karen Fry. “The work dispatchers do behind the scenes to disseminate critical information and provide steadfast support for the community and first responders is profoundly appreciated by the Vancouver Fire Rescue Services.”

“When confronted with an extraordinary night of multiple structure fires and operational firsts, the Fire Dispatch team responded with confidence, clarity, and composure,” says E-Comm’s Vice-President of Operations Stephen Thatcher.  “Their seamless coordination and exemplary dedication embody the spirit of excellence that is justifiably reflected in the team being awarded this year’s APCO Canada’s Team Award.”

Fire Dispatch team members recognized as part of APCO Canada’s Team Award include Afton Brooker, Corey Kelso, Gurvinder Sandhu, Jeff Chin, Jennifer Fitzgibbons, Maya Jokhi, Pavi Thind and Susan Shorting.

Vancouver Island Trainer recognized for compassionate mentorship

In addition to the Team Award, Tanya Silletta has been named APCO Canada’s Trainer of the Year. Tanya has been with E-Comm’s Vancouver Island emergency communications centre for six years, including five years with the Training team. Tanya has directly trained more than 100 police call takers and 50 police dispatchers, shaping over 74 per cent of E-Comm’s current staff at the Vancouver Island centre.

Trainer Tanya Silletta accepting the APCO Trainer of the Year Award at the APCO Canada 2025 Awards Reception

Tanya is widely recognized for her compassion, patience and dedication to mentorship. She ensures that new staff are supported throughout their training and beyond, providing guidance, coaching and resources to help them succeed in high-pressure emergency communications roles.

“It’s wonderful to see Tanya’s passion for helping others grow—both at E-Comm and at the Canadian Police College—recognized in this manner,” says E-Comm’s Vice-President of Operations Stephen Thatcher.  “Her outstanding commitment and contributions to developing public safety communicators throughout her 30-year career in emergency communications are truly deserving of celebration on the national stage.”

Congratulations to Tanya Silletta and the Fire Dispatch team for these remarkable achievements—each a shining example of leadership, teamwork and excellence in public safety communications.

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For both Colton and Alex, the event carries deep personal meaning through the challenge.

From survivor to advocate

For Colton, Tour de Coast is far more than an event—it’s personal. At just four years old, Colton was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. What followed was a year of chemotherapy at BC Children’s Hospital, multiple misdiagnoses, and groundbreaking surgery to remove most of his left hip bone and sacrum to prevent recurrence.

Now, 25 years later and cancer-free, Colton says he feels a deep sense of gratitude. “I’m one of the only people in the world to have had that surgery. Every day is a reminder of how fortunate I am to still be here.”

Colton’s survivorship has shaped his passion for advocacy. He attended Camp Goodtimes in 2001, received the 2022 Terry Fox Gold Medal Award from SFU, and continues to share his story at events to raise awareness about childhood cancer.

This year, Colton will be part of the support crew, helping riders behind-the-scenes to make sure everything runs smoothly.

“Stepping into this role is outside of my comfort zone, but it’s important to me to connect with survivors, families, and first responders who are all part of this journey,” says Colton. “The support I’ve received has been overwhelming, and I’m so grateful. The funds raised will make a real difference for kids and families facing cancer.”

Building camaraderie on the road

As a fire call taker, Alex works closely with other first responders over the phone, but Tour de Coast offers a unique opportunity to connect in person and share an experience that unites everyone for a bigger cause.

That sense of camaraderie is what drew Alex to the event, but he also sees it as a personal challenge and a way to give back.

“It’s the trifecta for me: raising funds and awareness for childhood cancer research, pushing myself to ride 800 km across the coast, and being able to connect with partner agencies in person. To ride shoulder-to-shoulder with other first responders, all working toward the same goal, is really special. It reminds me that while we may play different roles, we’re all part of the same team.”

Over the past few months, Colton and Alex have been busy supporting the Tour de Coast in every way they can, by attending community events to raise awareness, volunteering at Camp Goodtimes and organizing fundraisers to help their team reach its goals.

Together, they show us that behind every uniform—and every call answered—are people dedicated to making a difference, both at work and far beyond it.

If you’d like to support Colton and Alex in their journey, donations can be made through the fundraising pages below:

Donation links

Colton Boreen’s Personal Page

Alexander Emeny Team

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Talana Watt Madu, a Police Call Taker with E-Comm and proud Maple Ridge resident, has been awarded the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Gold Line Scholarship—one of only 11 Canadians to receive the honour this year, and the sole recipient from British Columbia.

The Gold Line Scholarship recognizes exceptional 9-1-1 telecommunicators, call takers, and dispatchers who demonstrate professional excellence and a commitment to growth through education.

The award gave Talana the chance to attend the NENA 2025 Conference & Expo in Long Beach, California, one of the largest gatherings of its kind in North America, bringing together public safety experts, technology innovators, and government leaders to share best practices and explore the latest advancements in the industry.

Talana first discovered her passion for helping others as a volunteer at the Crisis Centre BC, which led her to join E-Comm in 2022. Since then, she has taken on a variety of leadership roles and developed a strong commitment to peer coaching and mentorship.

“Receiving the Gold Line Scholarship was incredibly meaningful,” said Talana. “It validated my goals to keep learning and growing, and it reminded me that the work I do as a police call taker truly matters. I came home with new tools, ideas, and a renewed passion for supporting my colleagues.”

During the conference, Talana attended training sessions on mental health, mentorship, and wellness strategies, toured the Long Beach disaster preparedness centre, and connected with professionals from across Canada and the U.S. A standout moment for her was a keynote exercise led by author Suneel Gupta, which revealed the shared challenges faced by emergency communications professionals—and the solidarity that exists within the field.

“One of my biggest goals is to continue developing as a leader within E-Comm, regardless of title,” says Talana. “Whether it’s through coaching, mentoring or simply listening, I want to help build a strong, resilient team where people feel supported, equipped and valued.”

Talana has already begun sharing what she learned, posting stress-management tips and wellness reminders for her colleagues at E-Comm. Looking ahead, she hopes to inspire more Canadian representation among Gold Line Scholarship recipients in 2026.

Download Media Assets

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Know your location

If you are camping, travelling, hiking or spending time in an area that is new to you this long weekend, knowing your location is critical in case you need to call 9-1-1 in an emergency. An exact location is always best, but landmarks and cross streets will also help us find you.

Stay heat-safe

Heat warnings are currently in effect in parts of B.C. Prepare for extreme temperatures by staying hydrated, avoiding peak heat hours, and spending time in cool or air-conditioned spaces. For health-related questions, call 8-1-1 to speak with a registered nurse. If someone is in medical distress—such as showing signs of heat stroke, exhaustion, or severe dehydration—call 9-1-1 immediately.

For updates on heat warnings, follow EmergencyInfoBC.

Report wildfires

With ongoing drought and high temperatures, much of the province remains at high risk for wildfires—even in areas that recently saw rain. To report a wildfire, unattended campfire or burning violation, call 1-800-663-5555 or *5555 from a cellphone. Check current conditions at BCWildfire.ca

When to call 9-1-1

If you need urgent help from police, fire or ambulance, call 9-1-1 immediately.

Summer-related emergencies that require a call to 9-1-1 can include boating accidents, break-ins, injured hikers, impaired or dangerous drivers, missing children or seniors, motor vehicle collisions with serious injuries and heat-related medical issues such as heat stroke, exhaustion, or severe dehydration.

If you are ever unsure whether a situation is an emergency, we encourage you to err on the side of caution and call 9-1-1 so a call taker can determine what kind of help is needed.

Thank you for doing your part by planning ahead, staying alert and using 9-1-1 responsibly. Stay safe and enjoy the long weekend.

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With the mercury set to rise this long weekend, E-Comm 9-1-1 is reminding the public to “Make the Right Call” – whether that be 9-1-1 in an emergency or through a number of other dedicated resources for less urgent situations.

In addition to seasonal hazards and climate related emergencies including flooding, wildfires and drought, warm weather typically drives increased calls for emergency services, with more people outdoors enjoying the sunshine at beaches, parks, patios and attractions.

During the summer months, E-Comm historically sees 9-1-1 call volumes rise by about 25—35% above the springtime average. To keep pace with the increased demand, E-Comm is adjusting staffing levels to align with anticipated increases during weekends, forecasted heat or weather patterns, and major events like Canada Day festivities.

“Whether staying close to home or traveling around B.C. this summer,  E-Comm’s team of dedicated call takers and dispatchers are here to help when you need it the most,” says Communications Manager Carly Paice.

“If it’s an emergency that requires immediate attendance from police, fire, or ambulance, please call 9-1-1 right away. By following the lead of call takers, who will ask a series of questions, you help us get the critical information emergency responders on the ground need as quickly as possible.”

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You may not often think about the people behind 9-1-1 until the moment you’re in crisis—but when that moment arrives, these individuals become the most important people in your life.

Who are these people, you ask? They are the team at E-Comm. Our call takers and dispatchers handle more than 5,600 calls a day, making a profound impact on the lives of British Columbians across the region.

As we observe Emergency Service Dispatchers and 9-1-1 Awareness Week from April 13-19, E-Comm is proud to highlight the first, first responders who work tirelessly behind the scenes to keep our communities safe.

Meet Keeleigh: 9-1-1 Queue Agent

When you dial 9-1-1, the first person you’ll speak to is a 9-1-1 Queue Agent like Keeleigh. Her role is to quickly confirm your location and determine whether police, fire, or ambulance services are needed—ensuring you’re connected to the right agency as fast as possible.

What motivated you to pursue a career at E-Comm?

After working as a Bio-Recovery Technician (aka Crime Scene Cleaner) for a few years, I decided I wanted to move into a role as a first responder to help people who might be in crisis. I see this as one of my purposes in life and it motivates me to be the best person I can and treat those I encounter in my life with as much kindness as possible because everyone is fighting their own battles.

What is your #1 tip for someone calling 9-1-1?

Please be ready to tell us what agency “police, ambulance or fire” right away and the city or town you need help to.

Those are the details we need first to get you the help you need the fastest. I know it can be hard to focus on questions in times of stress, but please do your best to listen to us because we need certain details to get you the appropriate help the fastest.

For more tips on calling 9-1-1, visit www.ecomm911.ca/911-dispatch/tips-and-info/

Meet Mark: Police Call Taker

If your 9-1-1 call requires police assistance, Keeleigh will transfer you to a police call taker—that’s where Mark comes in. He’ll ask questions in a specific order to understand the situation and get the best information possible. Mark with get a police file started and send help on the way.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Regardless how stressful the calls get, knowing I have made someone’s day a bit easier because I was the calming voice on probably their worst day. While I’m not solving their issue, I know I’ve at least been a part of their solution.

What is one thing you wish people knew about your job?

How much dedication there is—we’re all here because we want to make an improvement in the place we live. Never have I met such devotion and care in one’s job than working here.

Meet Katherine: Police Dispatcher

While you’re on the line with a police call taker, they are simultaneously relaying information with police dispatcher like Katherine. She helps to coordinate police resources and serves as the point person between the call taker and the officers on the ground, relaying real-time information to direct police response and keep officers safe.

What do you find most rewarding about your role?

Being able to be that source of support and assistance for people on the most difficult day of their life. To be that calm voice on the other end of the line for someone in need. It is also incredibly rewarding to be the lifeline for police officers. I’m very proud of the work I do.

What is one thing you wish people knew about your job?

This job takes an incredible mental and physical toll on us. Though we don’t attend scenes like police, firefighters, or paramedics, the work we do affects us, sometimes in profound ways. 

Meet Sadie: Non-Emergency Call Taker

If you need to report a police matter that does not require an immediate response, you can call your local 10-digit non-emergency line and speak with dedicated non-emergency call taker like Sadie. She will collect all the necessary information to create a police file, or help to refer you to the right resource. Tip: you can find your local number at nonemergency.ca

What motivated you to pursue a career at E-Comm?

I pursued a career at E-Comm 911 at a time when they were introducing their first Non-Emergency only team. I was drawn to the role because it was a meaningful way to support the community but also a great effort in keeping emergency lines open for those who really needed it. It’s a rewarding way to make a difference for everyone, every day.

What is your #1 tip for someone calling the non-emergency line?

We receive many calls on our Non-Emergency lines and although we are happy to help, many policing agencies offer online crime reporting services that guide you through a series of questions to make a report rather than dialing in.  It’s a convenient and accessible way to support community safety while also saving time.

Meet Matt: Fire Call Taker

If response from a fire department is required, a 9-1-1 Queue Agent will transfer the call to a Fire Call Taker like Matt. He will confirm your location and work with a Fire Dispatcher to get help on the way.

What’s one thing you wish people knew about your job?

Something I wish people knew about Fire Dispatch is how varied the calls can be. A lot of people only imagine fire when they think of calling the Fire Department, but we deal with a varied list of emergencies, from rescues, emergency airplane landings, medical emergencies and much more. You can never predict what you’ll hear when you answer the phone.   

What is your #1 tip for someone calling 9-1-1?

The best tip I have for calling 9-1-1 is to be aware of where you are. We don’t always need an exact address if you don’t have it, but cross streets, store names, landmarks, anything we can use to send help to you is useful. Also answering our questions to the best of your ability, and it’s always better to say you don’t know than to assume. 

E-Comm is the first point of contact for 99% of 9-1-1 calls in B.C. and provides call-taking and dispatch services for over 70 police and fire agencies. When a call falls outside E-Comm’s service area, our 9-1-1 call-takers transfer it to the appropriate police or fire agency. Medical calls are transferred to BC Emergency Health Services for ambulance dispatch and medical call-taking.

Every one of our staff at E-Comm and emergency communications professionals across British Columbia play an essential role in ensuring that help arrives swiftly and efficiently when it’s needed the most. These are the unsung heroes who make our communities safer, and during Emergency Service Dispatchers and 9-1-1 Awareness Week, we take the time to recognize their unwavering dedication and the crucial work they do every day.

Next time you dial 9-1-1, remember that the person on the other end is not just answering a call—they’re part of a team committed to making your community safer, one call at a time.

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How the Scam Works

Scammers use technology to make it look like they are calling from a legitimate police non-emergency number. This tactic is designed to earn your trust and convince you to share sensitive information.

Remember: Police will never call you unexpectedly to request personal or financial information over the phone.

Tips for preventing caller ID scams

• Never provide personal details, such as your banking information, Social Insurance Number (SIN) or passwords, over the phone.
• If you are unsure, or something feels off, hang up immediately and call your local police non-emergency line to confirm. Visit nonemergency.ca to find your local 10-digit number.
  • Note: do not call back using any number provided to you by the caller.
• Do not be intimidated by any demands made by the caller. Police will never threaten, pressure or attempt to extort you if you do not comply with a caller’s demands.

What to do if you’ve been targeted

• If you believe you have been the victim of this scam and have shared personal identity information, financial information, and/or sent money, please report it to police by calling your local police non-emergency line.
• If you suspect your banking information has been compromised, contact your financial institution immediately. Additionally, notify Equifax to alert lenders that you may be a victim of fraud.
• If you have received a fraudulent phone call, but have not provided personal information or sent money, please contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre by calling 1-888-495-8501.

Please share these tips with your loved ones.

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During the forum, E-Comm emphasized the critical role of reporting retail crimes. When incidents like theft, vandalism, or fraud are reported, businesses help provide valuable data that allows police agencies to direct patrols, track criminal activity, identify emerging trends, and take proactive steps to prevent future crimes.

How to report retail crime:

For crimes in progress, including retail theft, call 9-1-1. To report a crime with a time delay, call your local 10-digit non-emergency line, or file a police report online. A full directory of non-emergency numbers and crime reporting tools can be found at NonEmergency.ca.

Unsure who to call? Always err on the side of caution and call 9-1-1.

Reporting crime is faster than before:

We’ve made some significant improvements to our non-emergency service, which are aimed at creating a more positive experience for callers – and as a result, reporting crime is faster than before.

Key changes include a dedicated non-emergency call taking team, focused exclusively on handling non-emergency calls and any resulting reports. These skilled call takers also help relieve pressure on 9-1-1 operators and police emergency call takers during core hours.

An additional enhancement in the Lower Mainland is our new contact centre technology, Genesys. This interactive software provides non-emergency callers with estimated wait times, call-back options and the ability to receive their police file number by SMS text. For callers wishing to take advantage of these features, the best time to call is between 7 AM and 9 PM.

Since the launch of these new initiatives, we have seen vast improvements in our non-emergency service levels. Last year, our average time to answer a non-emergency call was two minutes – a 50% decrease from the previous year.

What to keep in mind when you witness crime:

We rely on you—the eyes and ears of the community—to provide critical information that helps keep everyone safe. Here are some important reminders when reporting retail crimes:

• Never intervene directly in a crime; your safety is the priority.
• Be an attentive and accurate witness, following the call taker’s instructions carefully.
• Do not place yourself at risk by attempting to apprehend suspects.
• Keep in mind that suspects may become hostile, aggressive, or combative when trying to escape.
• Remember, your health, safety, and well-being are far more important than any material loss.

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