When to Dial 999 – And When Not To!
Thames Valley Police get slammed with around 1,200 calls to 999 every day. Most are urgent emergencies, but some callers ring just hoping for guidance or by mistake. Worse, time-wasting calls put lives at risk by tying up vital lines. Know the difference before you dial!
The Android Update Messed Up Emergency Lines
Between October 2022 and February 2023, a new Android feature lets users trigger an SOS call by pressing the power button five times. This led to a 20% rise in accidental 999 calls, with 8,080 mistaken calls flooding in June 2023 alone.
Police Plea: Save 999 for Real Emergencies
Superintendent Matt Bullivant said: “Every summer brings more 999 calls with longer days, better weather, and tourists flooding the Thames Valley.”
“Please keep 999 free for life-threatening emergencies, crimes in progress, or immediate safety concerns. For everything else, use 101, online reports, or visit police stations during opening hours.”
“If you call 999 by accident, don’t hang up—just tell us. It helps call handlers quickly get back to real emergencies. And remember, silent calls always get checked out.”
Think You Could Handle The Pressure? Become a 999 Call Handler!
Picture this: calming a hysterical parent with a missing child or guiding someone trapped after a nasty crash. This job demands empathy, quick thinking, and resilience.
Thames Valley Police are hunting for brave, kind-hearted people ready to help strangers in their worst moments. Fancy joining this unsung team of heroes? Visit www.tvpcareers.co.uk to apply now!
