If you are about to commence your study excursion to the United Kingdom, you have likely conducted research on the following: places to visit, activities, and accommodations, among other essentials.
Nevertheless, are you aware of any of the emergency numbers in the United Kingdom?
Although it may appear unlikely that you will need to contact any of these hotlines during your travel, it is impossible to be certain. Ultimately, there may be instances in which the unexpected transpires.
You would want to be prepared in order to receive the requisite assistance and support in the event of an emergency.
Are you uncertain about where to begin? Do not be concerned; our guide delves into a variety of circumstances and the essential emergency information that would be required for each one.
6 Scenarios When Studying In The UK To Be Prepared For (And The Hotlines)
Encountering A Robbery, Burglary Or Crime
The United Kingdom police are responsible for a variety of duties, including the management of crime, the provision of community support, and the supervision of large-scale events.
Nevertheless, it is imperative that you only contact the police at 999 in the event of a genuine emergency. For instance, if an individual is in imminent danger, the situation may escalate and become violent, or if immediate assistance is required.
If you are confronted with a robbery, burglary, or crime, it is important to assess the situation’s severity prior to making contact.
The non-emergency hotline 101 or an online report should be used to notify a less serious issue or crime, such as stolen items, property damage, or local drug use. Alternatively, you may contact or visit your local police station.
Witnessing Or Encountering A Fire
In the event that you observe or come across a fire, please contact the London Fire Brigade immediately by dialing 999.
Even if the fire appears to be minor and you are uncertain whether it is an emergency, you should still dial 999 to have it extinguished.
Once you arrive at the fire brigade, your call will be forwarded to the fire control room, where you will be prompted to provide information regarding the location affected by the fire, such as the postal code. If you are unable to provide the postal code, you may provide the name of the street or a local landmark.
This will be followed by dispatching the nearest fire engine, which will be equipped with the requisite apparatus and expected to arrive within six minutes.
Having A Traffic Accident (Roadside Assistance)
Dealing with a vehicle breakdown can be not only anxiety-inducing but also hazardous if you are on the motorway.
In the event that this occurs, the initial step is to activate your hazard lights and verify that you are in a secure location. This can be accomplished by either relocating your vehicle to the road median or if feasible, off the road and remaining as far to the left as possible with the wheels turned to the left.
After that, contact the AA at 03330 046 046 for roadside assistance.
Medical Emergency
In the event of a life-threatening medical emergency, dial 999 to request an ambulance.
Although it may be distressing to confront such an incident, it is beneficial to maintain composure and promptly call for assistance.
Afterward, the ambulance will assume responsibility for the situation.
Mental Health Breakdown
During your tenure as an international student, you may experience feelings of being overpowered. In addition to the typical tension associated with exams and assignments, you may encounter personal challenges such as homesickness or culture shock.
Regrettably, this may result in a mental health crisis.
In the event that this occurs, it is crucial to seek assistance and communicate with a trusted individual rather than suppressing your emotions.
A local NHS urgent mental health helpline provides access to 24-hour support and the opportunity to communicate with a mental health professional if you are located in England.
Alternatively, you may initiate an anonymous text message conversation with a trained volunteer by sending the word “SHOUT” to 85258, which is available for free on all main UK mobile networks. Mental Health Innovations, a charitable organization, administers this confidential, free mental health support service via text messaging on a 24-hour basis.
Immediate Health Advice Hotline
Please dial 111 to contact the NHS non-emergency service if you need medical assistance or advice for a non-life-threatening situation.
The phone operator will inquire about the nature of your symptoms and then offer guidance on the next course of action, which may include visiting your general practitioner, visiting an emergency dentist, or attending A&E.
Additionally, the operator will be able to assist you in scheduling an appointment, transferring you to the appropriate individual, or dispatching an ambulance if necessary.
Gear Up For Your Study Adventure In The UK
We will assist you in achieving your goal of studying in the United Kingdom.
At Liveabroad, we have a team of education counselors who are capable of providing personalized guidance to assist you in navigating the application process and making the most informed decision when selecting a course.
To commence, schedule your complimentary counseling session.