For the people of the UK, an emergency number has been known as 999 since 1937. This toll-free number was used to get immediate help in life-threatening situations like accidents, fire, bomb disposal, and others. However, since the 2000s to the present, many emergency numbers exist, like 101, 111, and 112, to improve public safety and emergency response.
But which number should you dial in an emergency, as it can be a matter of life or death?
Well! If you want to dive deeper, then let’s understand each number in detail with scenarios, best practices, and how to text.
999: The Traditional Emergency Number
999 is a traditional emergency number introduced in 1937 in the UK. It was the world’s first single emergency number and has been used for over 80 years. Initially, this number was used by police, but later, it was exposed to other emergency services like fire and accidents.
Dialing the 999 number has universal recognition, 24/7 availability, and is, of course, free of cost from landlines and mobile phones. Here, the operator accesses your location and then sends an emergency message to the first aid team and concern departments for quick response. You can dial this number for life-threatening situations such as;
- Burns and fire incidents
- Severe loss of blood
- Someone might die
- Heart attack or injuries
- Mountain or cave rescue
- Shipwrecks or other coastal incidents
- Report crimes or incidents
112: The Pan-European Emergency Number
112 was introduced in April 1995 in the UK and is now used by over 100 countries worldwide for emergency calling. Later on, this number was implemented in 2001 in different countries alongside the existing 999 number.
In the UK, 112 works the same as 999, and there is no difference in the search of networks. Here, both numbers are used in emergency services and are available 24/7 to call at absolutely no cost to deal with emergencies.
However, both numbers differ as 999 is specific to the UK, while 112 is recognised by the European Union. Also, 999 does not work as a roaming service, but you can dial 112 while roaming to access emergency services.
Making Emergency Calls: Best Practices
Panicking in emergency situations is obvious to everyone. So, making emergency calls with the right methods is essential to get a call back soon. You should keep an emergency number handy and dial the correct number immediately.
You can utilise the LIONEL Acronym approach for clear and concise communication. It means;
- Location: Say your exact address or location immediately after getting a response from another side.
- Incident: Describe the nature of the emergency you are going through.
- Others involved: Give information on whether other people are involved in the scenario or present there.
- Number of people affected: Explain an approximate number of people affected in the incident.
- Equipment or hazards: Describe any relevant equipment or hazards, such as gas leaks, that caused the emergency.
- Level of urgency: Indicate how urgent the scenario is and what support you require immediately.
Sending Text Messages to 999 in Emergencies
999 emergency number allows you direct communication with the respective department. However, in scenarios like technical problems with your phone, like if you are out of coverage area, battery drained, or even emergency issues like breathing problems or someone is injured, you can send a text to 999.
To register for the Emergency Text Service to 999, you first have to write ‘register’ and send it to 999. Then, you will get a reply, and then you have to type ’yes’ to complete the registration process. You will get a text back that you are now registered, and then type the problem for which you need instant assistance.
111: NHS Non-Emergency Medical Advice
If you need medical advice, you can dial 111, the National Health Service (NHS) number introduced by the UK. Through this, you can call for non-life-threatening medical concerns like allergies, flu, or cold. Here, you get services like medical advice and symptom checking, or they may refer you to the best medical institutions.
101: Non-Emergency Police Contact
If you want to report crimes, incidents, or concerns, then dialing 101 is best. You can dial if there is a non-urgent crime, providing information about the crime or suspect or general police inquiries. Here, the scope of 101 services is many, like crime reporting, information sharing, or guidance on police-related matters.
Conclusion
An emergency is a critical situation, but if you know the right phone number to call, you can get instant help. 999 and 112 are the emergency numbers in the UK to dial for fire, accidents, or any major issues. Otherwise, if there is a non-emergency situation like an urgent medical problem, then the NHS 111 number is right to dial. Similarly, if you face issues like car stealing, property damage, or debris on the road, you can ring 101.
You must familiarise yourself with these contact numbers to get several benefits. From helping strange individuals to joining a first aid volunteer and emergency team providing services, you can save the lives of millions. Pursue a first aid course from Executive First Aid and learn life-saving techniques. Get hands-on training in dealing with critical situations in the work environment, indoors and outdoors.
