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Dial 999 to call the police, fire and ambulance departments in an emergency. Along coastal areas, this number will also put you in touch with the British Coast Guard's rescue service, the RNLI. Use 101 when you need to contact the police for matters that don't require an immediate response, for example your car has been stolen or you want to provide information about a crime you witnessed. If you want advice about minor injuries and illnesses that are not life-threatening, call 111, the national non-emergency medical number - there is usually a bit of a wait.