How to be safe using a payphone
*NOTE: The operation of a payphone may differ depending on the region.
Location & Personal Safety
- Choose a well-lit, visible spot.
- Avoid isolated areas at night.
- Be aware of people standing unusually close.
- Keep your belongings in front of you and secure.
Privacy & Security
- Cover the keypad when dialing.
- Don’t speak sensitive info (PINs, card numbers, passwords).
- Check the phone for signs of tampering (loose panels, glued parts, strange add-on devices).
- Use only official payphones from trusted providers (Bell, Telus, etc.).
Health & Hygiene
- Wipe the handset if possible (tissue or sleeve works).
- Use hand sanitizer before, during and after your call.
Emergency Use
- Remember that 911 is always free on all payphones in Canada.
- Emergency numbers are usually free at most payphones, or public community phones.