999 Emergency Service System Experiences Technical Issue, Calls Not Connecting

Most police forces and emergency services have confirmed that they are now able to receive 999 calls again.

The issue was caused by a technical fault, and a back-up system was used while experts worked to restore the primary 999 lines.

BT, the telecoms company responsible for the service, confirmed that call handling times might be slightly longer than normal, but urged people to call 999 as usual.

Some emergency services were still experiencing issues around lunchtime, including Essex Fire Service, South Wales Police, the PSNI, and Police Scotland.

The Metropolitan Police warned that the back-up system was not as effective at locating callers and advised people to have address information available when calling.

Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service warned of a 30-second delay to connect to 999, while Suffolk Police said their system may not be working to full capacity and urged people to use 999 only in a genuine emergency.

East Midlands Ambulance Service (EMAS) suggested using 111 for urgent medical help if a 999 call was not successful, and encouraged people to consider alternative transportation to treatment centers if possible.