Emergency services across the UK have been impacted by a technical glitch, causing disruption to the 999 emergency call system.
The issue, which emerged at approximately 9am this morning, has led to a significant number of calls failing to connect. Affected police forces, including Wiltshire Police, have advised the public to use the non-emergency number, 101, for urgent assistance until further notice.
The responsibility for answering and directing emergency calls lies with BT, the company that manages the 999 services. While there were initial concerns about a potential hacking incident, the Metropolitan Police has stated that there is no evidence to suggest foul play.
A spokesperson from BT assured the public that they are actively working to resolve the issue, describing the situation as “fast-moving.”
It is crucial for individuals in affected areas to remain patient and exercise discretion when contacting emergency services. The impacted regions include various police forces, fire and rescue services, and ambulance services. Authorities are working diligently to rectify the issue and ensure that emergency calls can be promptly received and responded to.
Emergency services experiencing technical problems include:
Avon and Somerset Police
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service
Cumbria Police
Derbyshire Police
East England Ambulance Service
Essex Fire Service
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Services
Gloucestershire Fire Service
Gloucestershire CC
Kent Police
London Ambulance Service
North West Ambulance Service
North Yorkshire Police
Northumbria Police
South Wales Police Cardiff
Tyne and Wear Fire and Rescue Service
West Yorkshire Fire and Rescue
West Midlands Ambulance Service
West Midlands Police
Wiltshire Police
