Calling 999 from a mobile
GOV.UK says that if your mobile network is unavailable, 999 calls from mobile phones will automatically switch to another available network. If you still cannot get through:
- Try 112. It works the same as 999 and may connect even if 999 does not.
- Move somewhere else if you can. Signal may be better outdoors or on higher ground.
Landlines in a power cut
A landline that runs over your broadband (VoIP) may stop working in a power cut or if the broadband fails. Providers must offer a back-up that lets you call 999 for at least one hour in a power cut. It is free if you rely only on your landline. A common back-up is a battery unit for the router.
Ask your provider whether your equipment works in a power cut and what back-up it offers. GOV.UK also suggests having another way to reach the emergency services, such as a mobile phone.
If you cannot make a voice call
- Emergency SMS: if you have a hearing or speech difficulty, you can text 999 or 112. You must register first: text the word register to 999 or 112. It takes a minute or so, so do it now rather than in an emergency.
- Emergency text relay: dial 18000 on a textphone, or use the Relay UK app. Ofcom says these calls are prioritised like a voice 999 call.
- 999 BSL: deaf British Sign Language users can call 999 in BSL using the 999 BSL app or website. It is free, available 24 hours a day, and needs a data connection on a smartphone, tablet or computer. Ofcom suggests downloading the app now, so it is ready.
Check coverage where you live
Ofcom’s broadband and mobile coverage checker shows predicted coverage at an address. It is a prediction of normal service, not a live outage map. Our council pages show Ofcom’s figures for each pilot area.
We have not found an open live feed of mobile network outages that we could use. Check your network’s own website or app for its service status.