What are the emergency numbers in the UK?

Short answer: 999 or 112 for police, ambulance, fire or coastguard. 101 for the police when it is not an emergency. 111 for urgent medical help that is not life-threatening.

Does 112 work in the UK?

Yes. Calls to 999 or 112 reach the same call handlers, who ask which service you need and pass you to the police, ambulance, fire or coastguard.^[1]

What is 101 for?

GOV.UK says to call 101 for the police when it is not an emergency, for example to report a crime that has already happened. Calls to 999 and 101 are free.^[2]

When should I call 111?

The NHS says to call 111 if you urgently need medical help or advice but it is not a life-threatening situation, and 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured and their life is at risk.^[3]

How do I get mountain rescue or the coastguard?

Dial 999 or 112. For mountain rescue, Mountain Rescue England and Wales says to ask for the police, then mountain rescue.^[4]

Can I text 999?

Only if you have registered with emergencySMS first, which Mountain Rescue England and Wales advises doing in advance.^[4]

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