When do I call 999 ?
• If there is a danger to life or a risk of injury being caused, such as a serious road accident or assault.
• If a crime is in progress, such as robbery, burglary or theft, and the offender is still on the scene or has just left the area.
• If the immediate attendance of a police officer is necessary - such as someone acting suspiciously and obviously about to commit a crime.
• If a crime is in progress, such as robbery, burglary or theft, and the offender is still on the scene or has just left the area.
• If the immediate attendance of a police officer is necessary - such as someone acting suspiciously and obviously about to commit a crime.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU RING 999 BUT ARE AFRAID TO SPEAK
In some circumstances a person may be able to ring 999, but may not be able to speak to the operator without putting themselves into more danger.
There is now a way of communicating without speaking to get help, but it’s important that this is done correctly.
Once connected to the 999 service the operator will ask which emergency service is required. At this point, if the caller is afraid to speak, they should just remain silent. The operator will then give a number of options such as coughing, tapping the handset, or pressing 55 on the telephone keypad. This alerts the operator that you are in danger and the call will be traced and the police sent to the address.
If in doubt, ask yourself :
➢ Will a delay have a disastrous effect on the incident I am reporting?
➢ Will someone's life be at risk?
➢ Will more damage be caused?
➢ Will an offender escape?
➢ Will evidence be lost?
If the answer to any question is YES, call 999
If the answer to all questions is NO, call the local Police on 101
➢ Will someone's life be at risk?
➢ Will more damage be caused?
➢ Will an offender escape?
➢ Will evidence be lost?
If the answer to any question is YES, call 999
If the answer to all questions is NO, call the local Police on 101