In an emergency dial 999

When you dial 999, the first person you will speak to is the Emergency Telephone Operator. They will ask which service you require. If you request the Fire Service, your call will be transferred to a Fire Control Operator. You will then hear the telephone number you are calling from repeated back to you.

Fire Control Operators are highly trained and will calmly guide you through the call. They will ask for important information to make sure the correct help is sent as quickly as possible.

This may include:

  1. The name and number of the house or building, if applicable
  2. The road or street name
  3. The town or village
  4. The type of incident, such as a fire or road traffic accident

If the incident is outdoors, you may also be asked for a What3Words location or details of nearby landmarks to help pinpoint the exact location.

 

Decorative image - What3Words app

Be prepared with the What3Words app

Use the free what3words app to tell emergency services exactly where you are. Call the emergency services, and follow these steps:

  1. Open the app. Wait a few seconds for the blue dot to settle in one place. 
  2. Locate yourself. Tap the location icon (this looks like an arrow) on your iPhone or the dart icon your Android. The 3 words of your location will display at the top of the screen. 
  3. Give the 3 words. Read the what3words location over the phone. 
Download the app here
Fire Control Illustration

Fire Control Operators

Find out more about our Fire Control Operators, who they are and what they do. 

Find out more