UK Emergency Numbers: 999, 112, 101, 111 and More
In an emergency, call 999 or 112. Both reach the emergency services in the UK and both are free. This page lists the other numbers you may need and what each one is for. Number Finder is not an emergency service: in an emergency, do not search, just call 999.
Emergency and urgent numbers
| Number | What it is for | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 999 or 112 | Police, fire, ambulance, coastguard and mountain rescue in an emergency | Free |
| 101 | Police when it is not an emergency | 15p per call |
| 111 | NHS advice when it is urgent but not life-threatening | Free |
| 105 | Power cuts and electricity network problems | Free |
| 0800 111 999 | National Gas Emergency Service: gas leak or smell of gas | Free |
| 159 | Contact your bank safely if you are worried about fraud | Check with your bank |
Help and support lines
| Number | What it is for | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| 116 123 | Samaritans: emotional support, any time | Free |
| 0800 1111 | Childline: support for children and young people | Free |
| 0808 2000 247 | National Domestic Abuse Helpline | Free |
| 0800 555 111 | Crimestoppers: report a crime anonymously | Free |
| 0300 123 2040 | Action Fraud: report fraud and cyber crime (England, Wales and Northern Ireland) | Standard rate |
If you cannot speak
If you call 999 from a mobile and cannot speak or make a noise, listen to the questions and press 55 when you are prompted. This lets the call handler know the call is real and that you need help.
If you are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment, you can register with the emergency SMS service by texting the word "register" to 999 and following the reply, so that you can text 999 in an emergency.
Scam calls and numbers
If a call claims to be from the police, your bank or a government body, hang up and call the organisation back on a number you have found yourself. Look an unknown number up on Who Called Me UK before you call back.
UK emergency numbers: common questions
What is the UK emergency number?
The UK emergency number is 999. You can also call 112, which reaches the same emergency services.
What is the difference between 999 and 112?
They connect to the same UK emergency services and both are free. 112 is the emergency number used across Europe, and it also works in the UK.
What is the non-emergency police number?
The non-emergency police number is 101. Calls cost a flat 15 pence.
What number do I call for the NHS when it is not an emergency?
Call 111 for urgent health advice that is not life-threatening. It is free.
Who do I call about a power cut?
Call 105. It is free and connects you to your local network operator.
Who do I call if I smell gas?
Call the National Gas Emergency Service on 0800 111 999. It is free, and you should leave the building if you think there is a leak.
