UK Travel Safety, Emergency Numbers (999 & NHS 111) & London Street Smarts

Last reviewed: 25 October 2026 · Prices in British Pounds Sterling (£ GBP) and US Dollars ($ USD) are approximate and for orientation only.

Emergency Numbers: 999 (or 112) & NHS 111

Dial 999 (or 112) free from any phone for life-threatening Police, Ambulance, Fire, or Mountain/Coastguard emergencies. For urgent but non-life-threatening medical advice or pharmacy referrals anywhere in the UK, dial 111 (NHS 24).

Look RIGHT First & Guard Phones Curbside in Central London

Because British traffic drives on the left, oncoming cars and cyclists approach from your right first when you step off the pavement — follow the white LOOK RIGHT / LOOK LEFT stencils painted on London streets. In busy West End and Oxford Street areas, step back from the curb toward building walls when checking maps on your phone to prevent e-bike phone snatching.