What do the police in Alberta do?

Categories: Police 

The police in Alberta responsible for preventing and investigating crime and providing public safety and security.


In Alberta, (and the rest of Canada,) the police are separate from the Canadian and Albertan governments, and from the military. They are non-political civilian organizations.

The police are overseen by a civilian board who ensure professional standards, and provide a safe an open way for civilians to voice complaints.

There are two kinds of police forces in Alberta. Many towns and cities have their own municipal police forces. The rest of Alberta is policed by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

How can I contact the police?

In an emergency:

  • Dial 911 from any phone to be connected immediately to police, fire and ambulance services.

Non-emergency:

  • The police force responsible for your community will have a non-emergency telephone number. This is usually used to report a crime or problem that does not pose an immediate threat.

In Person:

  • Most police stations have a public reception desk where you can speak to an office to report a crime, problem, or ask a question.

On the street:

  • You can almost always approach a uniformed police officer on the street, or flag them down if they are in a car. The police are there to serve you.

Note: if you dial 911 for emergency services, the police will arrive at your location even if you dial 911 by accident, or if you cannot speak.

Where can I find more information?