Guelph 911 system inundated with unregistered phone calls
Posted Feb 11, 2026 01:06:09 PM.
Last Updated Feb 11, 2026 01:09:27 PM.
Letting a child play with an old cell phone seems like harmless fun, but Guelph Police are advising caregivers to reconsider allowing it.
On Sunday, Feb. 8, Guelph police said they began receiving the calls around 4:40 p.m., and they continued until just after 9:30 that evening. Over 120 phone calls were received over that time, with seemingly no one on the other end.
Police said at times, a child could be heard in the background, but the communicator was unable to speak with anyone.
Officers were dispatched and attended several addresses, but were unable to locate the device or identify an emergency.
Police want to remind the public that any functioning cell phone can connect to 911, even if it is not connected to a service provider or has had its SIM card removed.
However, without the benefit of a provider or a SIM card, it is very difficult to accurately locate the device. It also makes it impossible for the 911 communicator to call the number back.
Caregivers are advised to only allow a child to play with an old cell phone if the battery has been fully drained or completely removed.
Should an accidental call be made to 911, stay on the line and speak with the communicator to confirm there is no emergency and prevent the wasting of police and emergency resources.
