What makes a report useful
Provide what you know — without putting yourself at risk.
Do not investigate it yourself
If something appears dangerous, criminal or security-sensitive, make the report and let the responsible authority assess it. Do not approach hazards to gather information.
A clear, factual report helps responders act quickly. Include as much of the following as you can safely observe.
What information makes a report useful
| Information | Useful detail |
|---|---|
| What happened | Describe the event or concern factually; distinguish what you saw yourself from what someone else told you. |
| Where | Exact address, road, station, bridge, postcode, landmark, or grid/location reference if appropriate. |
| When | Time/date; whether it is happening now; how long it has been happening. |
| Risk | Is anyone injured, trapped, threatened or exposed to danger? Is there fire, gas, electricity, traffic, water or contamination risk? |
| People / vehicles | Descriptions, vehicle registration, direction of travel — only if safely observed. |
| Infrastructure details | Pole/cabinet/bridge/level-crossing number, meter or asset reference if visible without approaching danger. |
| Evidence | Photos/video/documentation only where lawful and safe; never approach a hazard to obtain evidence. |
| Your contact details | Provide them where useful, unless the reporting route permits anonymity and you need it. |
All reporting topicsLast verified 28 September 2026