With traditional 9-1-1 service (also known as enhanced 9-1-1), the phone service is provided and can only be used at a specific location, so your 9-1-1 call is sent directly to the nearest public safety answering point (PSAP).

With VoIP 9-1-1 service (also known as Nomadic 9-1-1 or N 9-1-1), the phone service can potentially be used anywhere with an Internet access, so your 9-1-1 call is sent to an emergency operator to confirm your location before the 9-1-1 call can be transferred to the correct PSAP.

Basic 9-1-1 service connects a 9-1-1 call to a call centre. The caller must identify his or her location to the 9-1-1 operator, who then connects the call to the emergency response centre serving that area.

Enhanced 9-1-1 service connects a 9-1-1 call to an emergency call centre and automatically provides the 9-1-1 operator with the phone number and address or location of the caller.

Next-generation 9-1-1 services will also connect 9-1-1 calls to emergency call centres and automatically provide the 9-1-1 operator with the phone number and address or location of the caller. In addition, NG9-1-1 will enable Canadians to interact with 9-1-1 call centres using new and innovative services and capabilities such as text messaging, and the transmission of photos, and videos.

Either Basic or Enhanced 9-1-1 service is available to almost all subscribers in Canada. Most subscribers receive Enhanced 9-1-1 service, and Basic 9-1-1 is provided in Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon, and Northwest Territories where the 9-1-1 call centres have not yet been upgraded to receive Enhanced 9-1-1 information. Where 9-1-1 service in not available, such as in Nunavut, emergency services are contacted using a normal telephone number.