Get to know your emergency contacts

Today's #30Days30WaysUK theme is knowing your emergency contacts.

Keep all emergency phone numbers stored in your phone and in a notebook by your telephone if you use a landline. You may want to keep a copy of these numbers in your purse or wallet too.

Key numbers include:

999 – The primary emergency number for the UK, used for urgent assistance from the police, fire brigade, ambulance, or coastguard. Dial 999 in any life-threatening situation.

112 – The alternative emergency number, which can also be used to contact emergency services across the UK and the EU. Dial 112 for the same services as 999. 

Police Services

999 or 112 – For immediate police assistance in an emergency.

101 – For non-emergency situations where you need police assistance or to report a crime that is not urgent. The 101 service is available across the UK. 

Fire Services

999 or 112 – To report a fire or request fire brigade services.

Ambulance Services

999 or 112 – For medical emergencies requiring an ambulance.

Coastguard Services

999 or 112 – For emergencies at sea, such as rescues or distress calls.

Non-Emergency Medical Services

111 – For non-emergency medical advice and assistance. The 111 service is available across England, Scotland, and parts of Northern Ireland.

 Utility and Service Emergencies

• Gas Emergency – Dial 0800 111 999 if you smell gas or suspect a gas leak.

• Power Cut – Dial 105 to report a power cut and get information about power outages in your area.