One day you might need to call the fire brigade, police or ambulance service. Following a few simple steps will help us get there as quickly as we can.

Before you dial 999, try to think about which of the emergency services to call. Don't worry if you're not sure - the emergency operator will help you. Try to find out as much as you can about where the emergency is - the house number or name, the road name, the district or town. This will help the operator to pinpoint the address.

All 999 calls are free. You can make them from any phone, including mobile phones.

Don't dial 999 if there isn't an emergency. All 999 calls are recorded and you are breaking the law if you make a hoax emergency call.

When you get through, the operator will ask you which emergency service you want: fire brigade, police or ambulance service. Please listen carefully and be patient. You will be put through to an emergency control room operator for the service you want. They will ask you a number of questions. Answer the questions clearly, and don't put down the phone until you are told to.

If you can, wait in a safe position for the emergency services to arrive. When they get there, tell them where the incident has happened. Vital seconds can be saved if the emergency services are able to go straight there.