What to do if you don't speak English?

In Calgary, even without knowing English, you can get emergency or urgent assistance: just call the appropriate three-digit number (9-1-1, 8-1-1, 2-1-1) and clearly state your language in English — “Ukrainian”. The operator will immediately connect you to an interpreter, and you will be able to communicate in your native language.

1. Where to call

Number When to use Languages available What to do
9-1-1 Life-threatening situations, fire, crime, traffic accident with injuries 300+ Dial 9-1-1, say “Ukrainian”, and briefly describe the incident. For people with hearing impairments, the T9-1-1 service is available (prior registration required).
8-1-1 Health Link: emergency medical advice 240+ After connecting, say “Ukrainian” — the interpreter will remain on the line for the duration of the call.
2-1-1 Social, psychological, financial, and housing resources 170+ Call, state your language, and describe your need. The service is available 24/7, free of charge, and confidential.

2. Steps to take when calling 9-1-1

  • Stay calm and speak clearly.
  • Start by stating your language: “Ukrainian” — this will reduce the wait time for an interpreter.
  • When the interpreter joins, describe:
  • What happened
  • The exact address or landmarks
  • Number of people involved
  • Answer any follow-up questions.
  • Do not hang up until the operator tells you to.

📌 Interesting fact: The Calgary 9-1-1 center receives about 200 calls per month from people who do not speak English — the translation system works effectively.

3. Prepare in advance

  • Carry a note in your wallet or on your phone: I speak Ukrainian. I need an interpreter.

  • Save the English names of places you frequently visit (work, home, school).

  • If you have a chronic medical condition, write down the names of your medications in English.

  • For people with hearing impairments:

  • Register with T9-1-1

  • Check if your phone supports SMS communication with emergency services.

4. Assistance in hospitals and clinics

Alberta Health Services provides interpreters by phone or video link in over 240 languages at any medical facility in the province. Simply tell the staff that you need an interpreter.

5. Useful contacts

Service Purpose Phone Languages
Calgary Police Service (non-emergency) Reports of non-critical offences 403-266-1234 Ask for the “Language Line”
City of Calgary 3-1-1 City issues (snow, garbage, potholes) 3-1-1 Ask for an interpreter
Deaf & Hear Alberta (ASL interpretation) Sign language for the deaf and hard of hearing 1-866-471-2805 (Ext 1) ASL

6. If you cannot call

  • SMS for the deaf: only for registered T9-1-1 users.
  • 2-1-1 online chat: open 211ab.ca → click Chat — an interpreter will connect in real time.

Conclusion

By following these recommendations, you will be able to quickly get help even without knowing English in any emergency situation.