National 999 emergency text number trial
Advice & Information
Published: 11/09/2009
A new national emergency text service, using 999 is now being trialled-this is aimed at hearing impaired and speech impaired people.
Users of the service are required to register their phones – this is a very quick and easy process that can be done via text message, and includes an explanation of how the service works and its limitations.
999 is the emergency text number to be used in a genuine emergency for hearing impaired and speech impaired people, who must remember that registration is necessary. If a person is able to use a voice telephone in the normal way, they should do so.
For more information on this new service and how to register, please visit www.emergencysms.org.uk
Please note that unregistered mobile phones attempting to use this service will not be connected and will receive an automated response to that effect.
80999 update
80999 is the emergency text number that has been active in Hampshire for the last five years, and was expanded for use by a number of neighbouring forces last year. This number will continue to operate for the foreseeable future.
Though it is intended that the national 999 number will replace all localised services (such as 80999), the national number is currently a trial, and so the local number will remain until a final decision is made on the future of 999, after the trial.
This is an important service. The police can take action against anyone misusing the system or sending false texts.
