RCMP concerned about false 911 calls from smart watches

RCMP are asking smart watch users to temporarily turn off the “SOS Fall Detection” setting when skiing or doing other sporting activities

The function contacts the police if a skier or boarder falls, and Kelowna RCMP — and other emergency services — have responded to six false 911 calls this ski season.

“All have been the result of smart watch owners unaware the “SOS function” has been turned on,” media relations officer, Const. Mike Della-Paolera said.

The officer said the latest incident took place on Jan. 10 after the watch’s function indicated a crash had occurred and emergency services were deployed.

“The watch’s GPS coordinates showed the location at a local area ski resort and because the call did not provide a call back number, RCMP were unable to locate the source causing the unnecessary emergency response which included fire and ambulance services,” Della-Paolera explained.

Police say many people do not even realize that the feature is functioning.

“Kelowna RCMP respond to all calls but this potentially could cause police, fire or ambulance the inability to respond to a real emergency in a timely manner,” Della-Paolera added.