KINGSTON POLICE REMIND RESIDENTS: DON’T CALL 911 FOR BAT ENCOUNTERS
- Small Town Productions
- 23 hours ago
- 2 min read
The Kingston Police Service are reminding residents that not every surprise visitor in the home is an emergency, especially when that visitor happens to be a bat.
Police say they’ve seen a noticeable rise in 911 calls from residents who have discovered bats flying or sleeping indoors. While the concern is understandable, these calls are tying up emergency lines that need to remain open for genuine crises.
“We’re asking residents to reserve 911 for life-threatening emergencies only,” the service noted in a recent advisory. “If you find a bat in your house, there are safer and more appropriate ways to handle it.”
Why It Matters
Bats are a normal part of Ontario’s ecosystem and often find their way into homes through small gaps or open windows, particularly during warmer months. While they can carry rabies, most encounters are not dangerous when handled calmly and correctly.
However, calling 911 for a routine wildlife issue can delay emergency responses for those truly in need. Kingston Police want to ensure help is available for people facing immediate danger or medical emergencies, not misplaced animals.
What To Do If You Find a Bat Indoors
If a bat appears in your home:
Stay calm and avoid contact. Don’t try to catch or touch it.
Provide an escape route. Open a window or door leading outside and close off the rest of the room so it can exit.
Call the right people. For safe removal, contact a licensed wildlife control service or Kingston Animal Services through the City of Kingston website.
If someone is bitten or scratched, call 911 immediately and seek medical attention. Rabies is rare but serious, and prompt treatment is essential.
Report dead bats or potential rabies exposure to the local public health unit.
A Call for Awareness
Police emphasize that using the non-emergency line or contacting wildlife experts keeps 911 free for urgent matters.
Residents are encouraged to share this reminder with friends, neighbours, and family members, particularly during late summer and fall when bats are more active.
“We all play a role in keeping our emergency system effective,” police added. “Knowing who to call helps everyone stay safer.”
For More Information
Visit cityofkingston.ca/wildlife for details on local animal control and safety guidance.
To report non-urgent concerns, contact Kingston Police at 613-549-4660.
For emergencies or confirmed bites, always dial 911.
Have you ever had a bat fly into your home? Share your experience or your best tip for safely guiding them back outside, your story might help others stay calm and informed.
🦇 Let’s keep Kingston safe and share this notice to help clear confusion and keep 911 lines open.
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