If you are unable to speak during an emergency call to 999 in the UK, you can still contact services through the Silent Solutions system. This system allows you to signal your need for police assistance without speaking.
Understanding the Silent Solutions System
The Silent Solutions system is crucial for individuals who are in danger, cannot speak due to medical reasons, or are in a situation where speaking would put them at further risk. When you call 999 and are unable to communicate verbally, the system is designed to detect this and prompt you for further action.
Steps to Make a Silent 999 Call from a Mobile
This method is specifically designed for mobile phones in the UK. Follow these steps if you need to contact emergency services but cannot speak:
| Step | Action (Silent 999 Call - Mobile) |
|---|---|
| 1. | Dial 999 from your mobile phone. Your call will first be answered by an operator who will ask which service you need (police, fire, ambulance). |
| 2. | Do not speak or answer any questions. The operator will then transfer your call to an automated system. |
| 3. | Listen carefully for prompts. If you are unable to speak, press 55 on your phone's keypad, or tap the screen when prompted. This is a crucial step to indicate that your call is genuine and that you require police assistance. |
| 4. | Upon pressing 55 (or tapping), your call will then be transferred to the police. |
| 5. | The police call handler will then attempt to communicate with you. Even if you cannot speak, try to listen to their questions and respond non-verbally if possible, for example, by tapping the phone or coughing to indicate a 'yes' or 'no' answer. |
What Happens When You Press 55?
Pressing '55' signals to the automated system that you are in a genuine emergency and require police intervention, but are unable to speak. If you dial 999 and don't speak or press 55, and no sounds are detected on the line, the call may be disconnected. The '55' prompt is vital for ensuring your call is taken seriously and transferred to the appropriate emergency service.
This system ensures that even in the most challenging circumstances, you have a way to reach out for critical help.
