Health and safety

Your health and safety are important elements to consider in trip planning. 

Emergency information

Emergencies aren’t always the first thing we think about when planning a vacation, but it’s very important to know what to do and who to contact in case something unfortunate happens. Here’s what to do in an emergency in Ontario.

9-1-1 emergency services

Dial 9-1-1 for emergency assistance for police, fire and ambulance services. 

Trained operators will provide critical information and connect you with the help you need. TTY access for the hearing impaired, language options and translation services are offered.

For non-emergency situations, dial 1-888-310-1122 for police assistance. 

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)

The OPP force provides essential services to ensure the safety and protect the security of people in the province of Ontario. The OPP has detachment stations across the province. Find the one nearest you.

You can also file a police report online for minor occurrences such as theft, lost property or driving complaints. 

Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)

The RCMP is Canada’s national police service and enforces federal laws throughout the country. 

Ontario 511 Road Information

Check the interactive map online or call 5-1-1 for up-to-date information on road closures, driving conditions, construction delays and more. 

Weather alerts

Be aware of hazardous weather watches and warnings, including lightning storms, floods, and hurricanes, in southern and northern Ontario.

Forest fires and fire bans

The potential for dangerous forest fires exists in Ontario as early as April each year. Get information on current forest fire activity. Learn how to report a fire and check where there may be restrictions or a full ban on having an outside fire, including campfires.  

Camping and wilderness safety

Follow these basic tips and reminders to eliminate danger and stay safe on land and water in Ontario’s beautiful provincial parks. 

Health Connect Ontario

Use the live chat tool or call 8-1-1 to speak with a health care professional or registered nurse for free. Get non-emergency medical advice and information on health care services. 

Ontario Poison Centre

If you have questions about poisons or suspect someone has ingested something poisonous, call 1-800-268-9017 toll-free. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Critical information and expert poison advice are provided in over 170 languages. 

Ontario AMBER Alert Program

The AMBER Alert program is a nationwide emergency warning broadcast across cell phone, television and radio to notify the public of a possible child abduction and to appeal for vigilance and assistance. Watch for the child, the suspect and other details like a vehicle described in the alert and report any sightings to 911.

Travel and medical insurance

Unfortunately, not all unexpected events, experiences and situations when travelling are positive ones. Accidents, mishaps and illness can put a damper on your vacation and could cost you a lot of money and grief. The best way to protect yourself from unforeseen costs or losses is to ensure you have travel insurance.

Travel insurance plans can be purchased through private insurance providers or may be offered through your credit card or travel agent. They cover an assortment of factors related to travel, including medical expenses, baggage loss, car rental, trip cancellation or interruption and more. 

Medical travel insurance

Travel in Ontario with peace of mind, knowing that you’ll be covered financially if you require medical assistance or services. 

Ontario residents

Canadian residents of Ontario with valid health cards receive most medical and health services free through OHIP, Ontario’s health insurance plan. Your health card is proof of your OHIP coverage. If you are a resident of Ontario, be sure to bring your health card with you while travelling in Ontario. You will need to show it if you visit an emergency room or see a doctor. 

Canadian residents outside Ontario

Travellers from Canadian provinces outside of Ontario may find their health plans cover some medical costs in Ontario, but not all such as ambulance fees and dental emergencies. Check to see what your health plan covers and purchase medical travel insurance to cover any other unexpected medical expenses. 

U.S. and international visitors

For international travellers to Ontario, including from the U.S., it is strongly advised to take the necessary steps to ensure you have travel health insurance. Without travel insurance, any hospital or emergency medical services you may need during your visit will be out-of-pocket expenses, which could easily become very expensive.

COVID-19 (Coronavirus) updates

The Government of Canada has removed all COVID-19 entry restrictions for travellers, regardless of citizenship.

This includes removing testing, quarantine and isolation requirements for anyone entering Canada. As well, masks are no longer required on plane and train travel.

Before your trip, check the Government of Canada website for any health and safety restrictions and/or requirements and follow official public health guidelines.

Get the facts on COVID-19

Learn the basics about COVID-19: This includes symptoms, variants, vaccines and treatments.

If you get sick: Find out what to do if you have the symptoms of COVID-19.  

COVID-19 resources

Government of Ontario

Public Health Ontario

Government of Canada