Calling 999 on a Smartphone – Tips and Tricks

Calling 999 isn’t always as straight forward as it seems. However, this article will provide some top tips and tricks on how to make calling 999 that little bit easier, from using different smartphones to how to call 999 if you’re deaf.

Emergency SOS

It is essential that when you call the emergency services (999) that they know your location. This can be difficult if you unsure where you are. However, it is possible to send your GPS location to the emergency services. 

If you need to call the emergency services (999) from an Android device, then Google automatically provides your GPS location.

Calling 999 from an iPhone:

Your device must have IOS 11 or above in order to send your GPS location to 999. On IOS 11 and above there is a feature called ‘Emergency SOS’.
The Emergency SOS feature uses your iPhone to alert an emergency service with a text message showing your exact location, so it updates them in real-time with your whereabouts. 
How it works:
On iPhone X, iPhone 8, or iPhone 8 Plus:
1. Press and hold the side button and one of the volume buttons until the Emergency SOS slider appears.
2. Drag the Emergency SOS slider to call emergency services. If you continue to hold down the side button and Volume button, instead of dragging the slider, a countdown begins and an alert sounds.
3. If you hold down the buttons until the countdown ends, your iPhone automatically calls emergency services without needing to drag the slider.
On iPhone 7 or earlier:
1. Rapidly press the side button five times. The Emergency SOS slider will then appear.
2. Next, drag the Emergency SOSO slider to call emergency services. 
3. If you started an emergency call by accident, press the Stop button, then tap Stop Calling.
After the call ends, your iPhone will ping the emergency service with your current location, unless you choose to cancel. Then, if Location Services is off, it will temporarily turn on. If your location changes, your contacts will get an update, and you’ll get a notification about 10 minutes later.
To stop the updates, tap the status bar and select “Stop Sharing Emergency Location.” If you keep sharing, then you’ll get a reminder to stop every 4 hours for 24 hours.

What Three Words

What three words is an essential app that allows you to pinpoint your location exactly, anywhere in the world. It works by dividing the world into squares, each with their own unique 3 words. Consequently, the emergency services can easily and efficiently find your exact 3 x 3 metre square and provide life saving care. 

This solves the potential issue that when calling 999 on a smartphone you may not be in a recognisable area. If there are no road signs or prominant landmarks around it can be incredibly difficult to direct the emergency services.

How to call 999 if you’re deaf

BSL users

The new app 999 BSL is a great way to contact the emergency services if you or someone you know uses BSL. All you have to do is download the app and then click ‘Call 999’. This will connect you to an interpreter who will be able to translate BSL so that the emergency services can provide help immediately.

Those who prefer to text

It is free and easy to register to text 999. This means it is much more accessible if you are deaf or are in a situation in which speaking is difficult. 

To register: TEXT ‘Register‘ to 999 and then you’ll be able to text the emergency services whenever you need.