Skip to main content
Bell
Log in
Your current region:   Ontario
Select your province or territory below:
Close province setting

How to be ready if there’s a service outage

Why it matters

In the event of a network outage, it’s critical that you know how to reach emergency services. Below you’ll find best practices to help you stay connected and safe.

Go to Mobility support

How to contact emergency services during an outage

  • Use a landline if available: Landlines may operate independently of mobile networks.
  • Try alternate mobile networks: Some devices may automatically roam to other networks for emergency calls.
  • Use satellite-enabled devices: Certain phones and wearables can connect via satellite to place emergency calls.
  • Use over-the-top (OTT) apps: Apps like WhatsApp or Signal may work over Wi-Fi if mobile networks are down.
  • Wireless Public Alerts (WPA): Public authorities may attempt to convey important information through wireless public alerts (or satellite-to-wireless where technically feasible). Ensure your device is compatible with WPA messages. Learn more about wireless public alerts.

What you can do

  • Confirm your device’s emergency capabilities:
    • Check if your phone supports satellite or Wi-Fi calling and that Wi-Fi calling is enabled.
    • Ensure location services are enabled for emergency responders.
  • Stay informed:
    • Visit bell.ca/outagecheck for real-time updates.
    • Use the MyBell app or site for personalized outage alerts.
    • Listen to the recorded messages when calling our support line.
  • Monitor local government social media accounts and local radio stations for emergency updates and instructions.
  • Prepare in advance:
    • Save emergency contacts in multiple formats (paper, phone, cloud).
    • Keep backup power sources (e.g., battery packs) for your devices.

How we support you

  • Continuous network monitoring and support:
    • Our dedicated team of network and field technicians are continuously monitoring, upgrading, repairing and optimizing our network, all with the shared goal of providing Canadians with the absolute best experience. We work with a variety of stakeholders – including power partners, city services, government officials and internal teams – to keep systems up and running.
  • Real-time alerts:
    • SMS
    • Email
    • App notifications
  • Cross-network support:
    • Canadian carriers may back each other up during outages to maintain emergency access where technically feasible.
  • Updated information:
    • This page will evolve as technologies and emergency protocols change.

Technical notes

  • Emergency calls are prioritized over other traffic during congestion where technically feasible and may, depending on circumstances, still function during an outage. However, only attempt to call 9-1-1 during an actual emergency.