Phoning 999

Details of what to do if you need to call 999 in an emergency

When you call 999 an operator will ask which emergency service you need. If it’s a medical emergency, ask for the ambulance service and you will be put through to one of our call takers. 

What information will I need? 

You will be asked to provide the following information: 

  • the phone number that you are calling from 
  • the address where you are, including postcode, if possible 
  • what has happened 

As soon as we know where you are, help will be on its way to you. 

You will also be asked to give some additional information such as: 

  • the patient’s age, sex and medical history 
  • whether the patient is conscious, breathing and if there is any bleeding or chest pain 
  • details of the injury and how it happened. 

Answering these questions does not delay the response, but helps us to give you important first aid advice while the ambulance is on its way. 

The extra information also helps to make sure that we send the most appropriate help to you. 

Easy Read leaflet on how to get help in an emergency if you find it hard to hear or speak.

Deaf, hard-of-hearing and speech-impaired people 

The Relay UK App allows deaf, hard-of-hearing, and speech-impaired people to speak to one of our call takers through a Relay Assistant by typing what you would like to say.  It is important that you download the app before you need us. 

More information