Last updated on 31 July 2025
Call 999 in emergency situations like these
- There is an immediate danger to life.
- Someone is using violence or is threatening to be violent.
- A road traffic collision where life is at risk, or the road is blocked.
- Crime is happening right now, like a house burglary or a theft.
- If you accidentally dial 999, please stay on the line and tell the operator you’re safe and that no crime has occurred.
Hearing or speech impairments
- If you have a hearing or speech impairment, and you’ve pre-registered with the emergency SMS service, you can use our text phone service 18000 or text us on 999.
- If you’re a British Sign Language (BSL) user, you can call 999 BSL to use a remote BSL interpreter.
Silent calls
- If you’re in danger, but you can’t talk on the phone, you should still call 999 and try to speak to the operator if you can, even by whispering.
- You may also be asked to cough or tap the keys on your phone to answer questions.
Calling 999 from a mobile
- If you don’t speak or answer questions, press 55 or tap when prompted and your call will be transferred to the police.
- The police will usually be able to find your location.
- If you don’t press 55 or respond, your call could be ended.
Calling 999 from a landline
- If you don’t speak or answer questions and the operator can only hear background noise, they’ll transfer your call to the police.
- If you replace the handset, the landline may remain connected for 45 seconds in case you pick it up again.
- Calling 999 from a landline automatically gives the police information about your location.
Non-emergency Dial 101
- Call 101 for non-emergency enquiries. If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our text phone service on 18001 101.
Report anonymously
- You can visit CrimeStoppers or call 0800 555 111 to anonymously report a crime or suspicious behaviour.