What is Allstream IP Relay?

Allstream IP Relay is a relay service for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals to place and receive text-based relay calls from their personal computer (PC) and/or mobile device. An Allstream IP Relay operator will connect an IP Relay caller to a voice party. All calls are strictly confidential. All you need to use Allstream IP Relay is a PC with an Internet connection.

Hearing users can place calls to deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals by dialing Allstream IP Relay at 1-833-442-9760 and providing the Allstream IP Relay operator with your 9 digit IP Relay number. When the deaf individual is logged in to Allstream IP Relay, they will receive a message alerting them of an incoming IP Relay call.

What you need to make Allstream IP Relay calls from a PC:

• Internet connection (DSL, Cable, T1, etc.)
• Internet browser (Microsoft Internet Explorer 7, 8 or 9, Apple Safari 4 or greater, Mozilla Firefox 3.5 or greater, Google Chrome)
• Computer

Allstream IP Relay Calls

Deaf individuals must be registered with Allstream IP Relay before they are able to use the Allstream IP Relay service. Once your account is created, you will receive a 9 digit number and password. You will be able to make and receive Allstream IP Relay calls.

What type of calls can I make?

• IP to Voice
• Voice to IP
• Two-line VCO (voice carry over) to Voice
• Two-line HCO (hearing carry over) to Voice
• Local, long distance and international calls

* Customers registering without an Allstream landline may be unable to place international calls

Not supported:

• Calls to 900 numbers
• IP calls to IP calls

IP to Voice calls within North America are free of charge to the IP caller. International and directory assistance calls will be charged at regular rates and will appear on your Allstream wireline phone bill.

* Customers registering without an Allstream landline may be unable to place international calls.

Why is my IP Relay Number 9 digits?

The nine-digit number is unique Allstream IP Relay personal phone number, just like the ones used on standard telephone lines. The nine digits reflect that this is an IP number and not a standard telephone line number. Each number is unique. The “prefix” numbers (the first three numbers – the area code) do not include 800, 877 or 866.

How do voice callers reach me?

Voice callers will simply dial the toll-free Allstream IP Relay number 1-833-442-9760 and provide the Allstream IP Relay operator with your dedicated 9-digit number. The IP Relay operator will connect to your IP number. You must be logged onto Allstream IP Relay in order to receive an incoming call. The voice caller’s number will be displayed to you, and you have the option to accept or ignore the incoming call.

What happens if I’m not logged onto the Allstream IP Relay web page or choose to ignore an incoming voice call?

If you are not logged onto the Allstream IP Relay web page, or you choose to ignore an incoming voice call, the voice caller will have the option to leave a text message.

Messages will be displayed on your “Make a Call” screen.

When you make a call, your 10-digit registered wireline number will be displayed on the other person’s caller ID screen. They’ll know it is you and be more likely to answer the call!

Who can get a nine-digit number?

Any person who has an Allstream service and is deaf, hard of hearing or has a speech disability may register for a nine-digit number for Allstream IP Relay at https://iprelay.allstream.com

What happens if I’ve moved to a new location?

You must keep your location (address) information up-to-date in your Account Profile to ensure that emergency calls connect to the most appropriate 911 operator.

To make changes or updates to your Account profile, simply log in to the Allstream IP Relay page and update your address in your Account profile.

Is this service offered in French?

Allstream IP Relay is available in English and French. Your IP Relay call can be routed to either an English or French IP Relay operator by selecting “English” or “French” before pressing the call button.

Emergency Services – Police, Fire and Ambulance

Can I dial emergency services using Allstream IP Relay?

Yes, but we urge you to call 9-1-1 using your TTY (if available) for emergency calls to avoid possible life-threatening delay.

If you need to contact emergency services such as police, fire and ambulance using Allstream IP relay, the Allstream IP Relay operator will route your emergency call over the wireline E911 network to the nearest public safety answering point (PSAP) based on your registered wireline phone number.

When using Allstream IP relay for your emergency calls, be sure to describe your name, location and any important information clearly so the operator can quickly contact your local emergency response centre.

IMPORTANT: If you press the emergency button by accident, DO NOT HANG UP, stay on the call and tell the operator that it was an accident. If you hang up the operator will contact the local police, who may come to the address in your profile to check that you are okay.

How do I call emergency services using Allstream IP Relay?

Simply select the emergency button from the Allstream IP Relay “Make a call” tab. The Allstream IP Relay operator will verify your location even if you have a registered wireline phone number on file. Be sure to clearly describe your emergency and any other identifying information at the beginning of the call.

IMPORTANT: If you press the emergency button by accident, DO NOT HANG UP, stay on the call and tell the operator that it was an accident. If you hang up the operator will contact the local police, who may come to the address in your profile to check that you are okay.

Why must I provide you with a registered wireline phone number for Emergency Service?

To make sure the emergency personnel (police, fire, ambulance) know where to go in an emergency.

Is a P.O. Box an acceptable address for Emergency Service?

No. The address you provide is the physical address where you want emergency personnel to go in an emergency. Emergency services cannot be dispatched to post office box addresses.

What happens if I move or change my current address?

You must remember to update your Address information in your profile. You should do this so that if/when you are in need of help, emergency services personnel are dispatched to the correct address to render aid. It is your responsibility to ensure that this information is up-to-date.

What would happen if I was disconnected from the operator during an Emergency call?

The operator would complete the call to emergency services and provide emergency services with your information.

What information should I provide when I call Emergency Services?

Be sure to tell the Allstream IP Relay Operator the following information:

• Your current street address (where are you?)
• Your name
• What is the emergency
• Any additional information that will help the emergency personnel