9-9-9 facts for kids
999 (pronounced "nine-nine-nine") is a very important emergency telephone number used in the United Kingdom and Ireland. When you call 999, you can quickly reach help for serious situations.
This number connects you to different emergency services like the police, fire and rescue teams, ambulances (for paramedics and medical help), mountain rescue, coast guard, and cave rescue. It's used when someone needs urgent help because of an accident, a crime, or a medical emergency.
Did you know that 999 is also the emergency medical number in Poland?
Another important emergency number is 112. This number works across the entire European Union and is also the main emergency number for all GSM mobile phones around the world. So, if you're traveling, 112 is a good number to remember!
Contents
What is an Emergency Number?
An emergency number is a special phone number you call when you need immediate help from police, firefighters, or medical teams. These numbers are made to be easy to remember and quick to dial so people can get help as fast as possible in dangerous situations.
When to Call 999
You should only call 999 when there is a real emergency. This means:
- Someone's life is in danger.
- A serious crime is happening right now.
- There is a fire.
- Someone is seriously hurt or very ill.
Why Calling 999 is Important
Calling 999 quickly in a real emergency can save lives or prevent more harm. The people who answer these calls are trained to help you and send the right emergency service to your location.
Other Emergency Numbers Around the World
Different countries use different numbers for emergencies. For example:
- In the United States and Canada, the emergency number is 911.
- In Australia, it's 000.
- As mentioned, 112 is used across the European Union and on most mobile phones globally.
Knowing the emergency number for where you are is super important for your safety!
Images for kids
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A helpful robot showing the way to emergency information.
