When to call police on 999 and when to choose 101
999 is for cases when someone is injured, being threatened or in danger; there is a risk of injury to someone or of serious damage to property; a crime or suspected crime is in progress; there is a serious incident which needs immediate police attendance; or someone suspected of a crime is nearby.
Typical examples of when people should call 101 include if you want to give police information about a crime that is not currently in progress; if your property has been stolen or damaged but it is not a crime in progress; or if you suspect drug dealing or use in your area.
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Hide AdEvery day around 35 calls on average go through to the force control room (FCR) via 101 when calling 999 would have been the better choice. Calling 999 means your call gets priority and allows the most appropriate action to be taken immediately.