Nationwide 999 system back up and running following earlier issues

Update: The issue with the national 999 Emergency call system has been resolved.

North Wales Police said:“Issues reported with 999 have been resolved and we are working with our partners to resume the service.”

“Please ensure 999 is used for emergencies only.”

“We can still be contacted on 101, webchat and via our website for non-emergencies.”

The issue with the national 999 Emergency call system has been resolved.

Please refrain from making any non-urgent calls to 999. Thank you for your patience. pic.twitter.com/4iDaoBoLqk

— North Wales Fire #DiogeluCymru #KeepWalesSafe (@NorthWalesFire) June 25, 2023

Earlier report: Emergency services across the UK have reported a widespread technical fault with the national 999 emergency call system, urging people to call the 101 number as an alternative.

The North Wales Police announced on social media: “Due to issues affecting the emergency 999 system, if you require an emergency police response please use ‘101’ until further notice, or ‘111’ for medical issues.”

They further pointed out that they can be contacted via webchat as well.

The force, along with other partners, is working to rectify the problem, yet requests the public to avoid non-emergency calls until the situation is resolved.

Alongside the police force, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service also flagged the same issue on their social media accounts.

In an announcement, they provided an alternative phone number, stating, “We are aware of an issue currently affecting the national 999 Emergency Call system. In the event of an emergency only, please call us on 01931 522 006.”

Authorities are currently unable to provide an exact timeline for when the issue will be resolved.

The outage marks one of the few times the 999 system – a staple of emergency response in the UK since its introduction in 1937 – has encountered such significant disruption.

The 999 service has long been a lifeline, handling thousands of emergency calls daily.

The public is urged to stay informed through social media channels and utilise alternative methods of contact in case of emergencies until the 999 service is fully restored.

Due to a technical fault impacting a number of forces, many 999 calls are not connecting. Until further notice please call 101, or Text 61016. ONLY call or text in an EMERGENCY until the issue has been resolved. pic.twitter.com/5z6oNHiNM8

— British Transport Police (@BTP) June 25, 2023