If you need immediate Police assistance and it is unsafe to call 999 or you cannot speak, send an SMS to 70999. Put the location and what is happening in the first message. If you can speak safely, SPF advises calling 999 because the operator can ask questions directly. SPF Emergency SMS 70999 instructions
Keep yourself safe while texting. SPF says it sends an acknowledgement when the emergency operator receives the message and may ask follow-up questions. Answer with facts you can confirm from where you are. SPF Emergency SMS 70999 instructions
- Text 70999 for an emergency when calling is unsafe or you cannot speak.
- Give the location of the incident and a short description of the danger.
- Read and answer replies if you can do so safely.
On this page
- Write a short message with a precise location
- Keep an eye on replies from a safe place
- Frequently asked questions
Write a short message with a precise location
Name the building or street first, then give the unit, floor, gate or nearest landmark. State what is happening now and who is in immediate danger if you know. Say that it is unsafe to speak if that applies. If your own safe location is different from the incident, make the distinction clear. SPF Emergency SMS 70999 instructions
Example message
Need Police urgently. [Building and address], Level [number], outside [unit or landmark]. Someone is threatening a person with a weapon. I am in [safe location] and cannot speak.
Keep an eye on replies from a safe place
SPF says operators may seek more information or clarification. Tell them if the situation or location changes. Give observations you already have and avoid moving closer to check a detail. If someone else is calling from a safe place, tell them the exact location and what you saw. SPF Emergency SMS 70999 instructions
A parent or student can practise by writing a sample message in a notes app. Use a familiar location and check that someone else could tell where the emergency was from the text alone.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use 70999 for a non-urgent report?
SPF reserves the number for emergencies when a voice call is unsafe or the caller cannot speak. Its guidance lists non-emergency reporting channels separately. SPF Emergency SMS 70999 instructions
What if I need emergency ambulance or fire help?
Call 995 if you can. SCDF provides SMS 70995 for people who are deaf, hard of hearing or have a speech impairment. SCDF Emergency Medical Services and SMS 70995