News
101 number will help those in distress
13 January 2012
Ann Barnes, Chair of the Kent Police Authority, has praised the new 101 non-emergency number for making life simpler for members of the public in distress. It’s hoped the new number will reduce the number of calls incorrectly made to the emergency number 999.
The 101 number was introduced nationally this week after a British crime survey revealed that only 54 per cent of people knew how to contact their local force.
Callers should use 101 to report all non-urgent incidents and crimes, such as a stolen car, or if property has been damaged.
Suspected drug dealing, minor traffic collisions or information about crime in your area should also be reported using the 101 number.
The number can be called 24/7 with an automated service directing people through to the Kent Police control room that deals with emergency and non-urgent calls and enquiries. Each call will cost 15p.
Callers should still report serious and urgent incidents – such as a crime in progress or where life is in danger - by phoning 999.
And general public nuisances like graffiti, abandoned vehicles, vandalism and fly-tipping will remain the responsibility of the local council.
Mrs Barnes said: ‘It’s a simple and easy number to remember. We criticise people for ringing 999 when it’s not necessary but if you’re concerned, and frightened, then you can easily forget what number to call. We want to free up the 999 airwaves for really life threatening situations or when a crime is in progress.’
AUDIO: Chair's comments on new 101 number