How to call 999 using British Sign Language

999 BSL is the UK’s first ever emergency service that is fully accessible for deaf and British Sign Language (BSL) users, by using a remote BSL interpreter when calling 999. This will be available from today and will be free to call.

How will it work?

There will be a 999 BSL app and a web-based platform in which you can access via a button ‘Call 999 BSL now’.  You will immediately be connected to a remote BSL interpreter who will then relay your conversation onto the emergency operator.  The app is extremely simple and easy to use, with a single button needed to connect to an interpreter.  999 BSL has been set up so that no deaf person will be excluded when they need to make an emergency call, therefore saving lives.

How to make a 999 BSL call

The service launches today (17 June 2022), there will be two ways to reach the emergency authorities through the 999 BSL service and they are:

• iOS and Android App (smartphone and tablet)
• Web-based (other devices) - https://999bsl.co.uk

There are three very simple steps. You will need to:

1. Open the app (needs downloading beforehand) or webpage - https://999bsl.co.uk
2. Press the red button ‘Call 999 BSL now’
3. Connect to an interpreter

When to use the 999 BSL service

The 999 BSL service is for emergency situations ONLY.  For example - if someone is seriously injured; lives at risk; being in danger or harm; a serious offence is in progress or has just been committed.