Getting help now
Emergency
Call 999 and ask for the police if:
- You are in immediate danger or harm
- A serious offence is happening or has just happened
- Property is at risk of being damaged
- There is likely to be serious disruption to the public
If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use the textphone service 18000.
If you have pre-registered with the emergencySMS service, then text 999.
- To pre-register to use this service, text ‘register’ to 999, and you will get a text which tells you what to do next.
- Please note: you will need to register again if you change your phone number.
- Do this when it is safe so you can text when you are in danger.
- If you try to register but don't get the 'success' text, check with your mobile provider to make sure they support the emergencySMS service.
Silent 999 calls
If you're in danger but you can't talk on the phone, you should still call 999 – try responding by coughing or tapping your phone if you are calling from a mobile.
Call 999 from a mobile
If you don't speak or answer questions, press 55 to make yourself heard, 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.
Call 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.
If it is not an emergency
If it is not an emergency, you can still report to the police via the following methods:
• online
• by calling 101 (If you have a hearing or speech impairment, use our textphone service on 18001 101)
• in the safety of your local police station (if you require a translator, the police can provide someone initially by phone and later in person).