UK Emergency Phone Numbers
It’s something we all hope we’ll never need, but knowing the correct emergency numbers can be vital. In the UK, accessing help in a crisis is straightforward once you know which number to call. This guide will break down the key numbers and when to use them.
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Table of Contents
The Primary Emergency Number: 999
- What it’s for: 999 is the main emergency number in the UK. You should dial 999 when you need immediate assistance from:
- The Police
- The Fire and Rescue Service
- The Ambulance Service
- The Coastguard
- When to Call: Call 999 if there is:
- A crime in progress: for example, a burglary or assault you are witnessing.
- A serious injury or medical emergency: for example, a road accident, a heart attack, or severe bleeding.
- A fire: of any size, but particularly if there is danger to people or property.
- A situation where life or property is at risk.
- What happens when you call?
- You will be connected to an operator who will ask you what service you need (police, fire, or ambulance).
- You will then be connected to the correct service and asked about the details of your emergency including the location.
- Remain calm, speak clearly and give as much detail as you can.
Alternative Emergency Number: 112
- What it’s for: 112 is the European emergency number and is an alternative to 999 in the UK. It connects to the same emergency services.
- When to call: If you are in the UK you can use 112 the same way you would use 999. It is the most recognised number in Europe, which can be beneficial if you are travelling and have difficulty remembering the number in each country.
Non-Emergency Situations: 101
- What it’s for: 101 is the non-emergency number for the police.
- When to call: Call 101 when:
- You need to report a crime that is not in progress. This might include:
- Reporting a theft after the fact (e.g., a stolen bicycle)
- Reporting a car accident with no injuries
- Reporting anti-social behaviour
- If you want to report any other incident to the police where there isn’t an urgent need for officers to arrive.
- You need information about the police in your local area.
- You have a non-emergency police enquiry
- You need to report a crime that is not in progress. This might include:
Other Important Numbers
- NHS 111 (England) / NHS 111 Wales / NHS 24 (Scotland): If you need medical help quickly but it’s not a 999 emergency, these services can provide health advice or direct you to the right place for care.
Key Reminders
- Stay Calm: In an emergency, it can be difficult, but try to remain calm and speak clearly when you call.
- Know Your Location: Be as precise as you can about where you are. If you don’t know the exact address, look for landmarks.
- Don’t Hang Up: Stay on the line until the operator tells you it’s okay to hang up.
- Misuse: Calling 999 when it’s not an emergency ties up valuable resources, potentially putting real emergencies at risk. It can also lead to a fine or even imprisonment.
FAQ
- Q: Is it free to call these numbers?
- A: Yes, calls to 999, 112, and 101 are free from landlines and mobile phones in the UK.
- Q: Can I text 999?
- A: Yes, you can use the emergency SMS service if you have registered your mobile phone. Register by texting ‘register’ to 999. You will then receive a message back, and must reply ‘yes’.
- Q: What if I accidentally dial 999?
- A: Don’t panic, remain on the line and explain that it was an accidental call. This prevents the emergency services from sending help unnecessarily.
- Q: What if I can’t speak due to the emergency?
- A: The operator will likely prompt you with a variety of questions. If you are unable to speak, try to cough or tap the mouthpiece on the phone to get their attention so they know your line is open.
- Q: Can I use these numbers from overseas?
- A: Not directly. If you are overseas and need UK emergency services, you will need to dial your local emergency number, which will then contact the relevant UK service.
- Q: Do I need to have credit on my phone to call an emergency number?
- A: No. These numbers can be dialled even if your mobile phone is out of credit.
- Q: Is there an age limit to calling these numbers?
- A: No. Anyone can call emergency services, regardless of age. It is never too young to learn the importance of the 999 services.
Summary
Knowing the right emergency numbers in the UK can make a critical difference in getting help when it’s needed. Remember, 999 or 112 for emergencies requiring immediate response, 101 for non-emergency police matters, and NHS 111 or equivalent for medical advice.