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UK ReadyKnow what to do
Emergency

Mobile / telecoms outage

What to do if mobile networks or landlines go down in the UK — how to still call 999 and stay in touch.

WHAT TO DO NOW

  1. 1To call 999 with no signal on your own network, your phone may still connect via another network — try the call anyway.
  2. 2Use Wi-Fi calling or internet messaging (WhatsApp, email) if you have broadband.
  3. 3If landlines are down, use a mobile; if mobiles are down, use a landline.
  4. 4Text may get through when calls won't — register for emergencySMS (text 999) in advance if you can.
  5. 5Conserve phone battery and agree a meeting point with family in case you can't call.
  6. 6Check official channels via any working connection for updates.

What not to do

  • Do not repeatedly redial 999 — it can congest the network.
  • Do not assume a broadband landline works in a power cut — most do not.
  • Do not rely on a single way of communicating.

What is it?

A telecoms outage is a loss of mobile signal, landline or internet, caused by faults, power cuts, damage or high demand. Modern 'digital' landlines depend on power and broadband.

What might happen?

Difficulty calling or messaging, no internet, card-payment problems, and trouble reaching 999. Effects may be local or wider.

First 10 minutes

Try to call/text anyone you need to reach. Note that 999 may connect via another network. Conserve battery.

First hour

Switch to any working channel (Wi-Fi calling, messaging, landline). Check on family via a meeting-point plan. Preserve battery with flight mode when idle.

First 24 hours

Follow official updates when a connection is available. Keep a battery radio for news. Support neighbours who rely on phones for care alarms.

If it continues for several days

For prolonged outages, use pre-agreed meeting points and an out-of-area contact. Keep essential numbers written on paper.

Children

Teach children a meeting point and a trusted adult to find if they can't phone home.

Older & vulnerable people

Check on anyone with a telecare alarm or who depends on the phone — they may need in-person help.

Pets

No direct pet impact.

Communications

Register for emergencySMS (text 999) if you're deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment. Keep a charged power bank.

Official sources

This guidance is an editorial explanation of official UK advice. Always follow instructions from the authorities.

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