Kelowna skiers triggering 911 calls with their Apple watches

Kelowna RCMP has recently responded to six false 911 calls set off by skiers and snowboarders falling at a local ski hill while wearing their Apple smartwatches.

According to a Kelowna RCMP media release, the watch's built-in SOS function contacts the RCMP and emergency services if a person suddenly falls.

The devices are meant to be useful in the event of a fall at home or if someone is involved in a vehicle collision.

However, they are also tricked if a skier or snowboarder takes a tumble while carving down the mountain.

"The latest incident took place in the afternoon of Jan. 10, 2023, after the watch’s function indicated a crash had occurred and emergency services were deployed," the media release says. "The watch’s GPS coordinates showed the location at a local area ski resort and because the call did not provide a callback number, RCMP were unable to locate the source causing the unnecessary emergency response which included fire and ambulance services."

The RCMP say most people aren't even aware their watches have this function and it is asking smartwatch owners to turn off the "Fall Detection" setting when out on the ski hills or doing other sporting activities.

"Kelowna RCMP responds to all calls but this potentially could cause police, fire or ambulance the inability to respond to a real emergency in a timely manner," Kelowna RCMP Const. Mike Della-Paolera said in the release.

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