Emergency Numbers in the UK: Complete Guide

Essential UK Emergency Numbers

Save these numbers in your phone — you never know when you might need them. In the UK, emergency calls are free from any phone, including mobiles without credit.

Primary Emergency Services

Detailed Emergency Numbers

Police

• 999 — Emergency (life in danger, crime in progress)
• 101 — Non-emergency (report a crime, get advice)
• 18001 101 — Textphone for hearing/speech impaired
• Counter Terrorism Hotline: 0800 789 321

NHS & Health

• 111 — NHS 111 (24/7 medical advice)
• 999 — Ambulance for life-threatening emergencies
• 116 123 — Samaritans (emotional support, 24/7)
• 85258 — Shout Crisis Text Line (text SHOUT)
• 0800 111 5555 — NHS Organ Donation

Fire & Rescue

• 999 — Fire brigade emergency
• 0800 0241 845 — Fire safety advice (non-emergency)

Other Emergency Services

• Coastguard: 999 (ask for Coastguard)
• Mountain Rescue: 999 (ask for Police, then Mountain Rescue)
• Gas Emergency: 0800 111 999 (gas leaks)
• Electricity Emergency: 105 (power cuts)
• Water Emergency: 0800 887 777 (burst pipes, flooding)

Victim Support

• 0808 168 9111 — Victim Support helpline
• 0808 801 0800 — Domestic violence helpline
• 0808 801 0333 — Childline (for children)
• 0808 800 5000 — Family Lives (parenting support)

Other Useful Numbers

• Taxi licensing: Contact your local council
• RAC: 0330 159 1111
• AA: 0800 887 766
• Green Flag: 0800 051 0928
• Citizens Advice: 0800 144 8848
• HMRC: 0300 200 3300

What to Do in an Emergency

1. Stay calm — Take a deep breath and assess the situation.
2. Call 999 — Tell the operator which service you need (police, fire, or ambulance).
3. Give your location — Be as specific as possible (street name, postcode, landmarks).
4. Follow instructions — Stay on the line until the operator tells you to hang up.
5. Don't hang up first — If you lose signal, call back if you can.

Non-Emergency Medical Help

For non-emergency medical issues:

• Call 111 for NHS advice (24/7, free)
• Visit your local GP surgery
• Use a pharmacy for minor ailments
• Visit an urgent treatment centre

For more practical information, see our cost of living guide and best cities to live in.