The MPS is reminding Londoners to dial 101 when contacting police when it’s not an emergency with expected increases in demand brought about by high winds in the next few days.

Calling 999 when it is not an emergency can reduce can our effectiveness at dealing with genuine emergencies.

Always continue to call 999 in an emergency – for example, when an immediate response is needed because a crime is happening, someone suspected of a crime is nearby, or someone is injured, being threatened or in danger. For all other matters, the public should call 101.

You can call 101 to report a crime that has already happened, seek crime prevention advice or make us aware of any policing issues in your local area.

Non-serious crime can also be reported via the Met’s website at www.met.police.uk

As with 999, calls to 101 in London are handled 24 hours a day, seven days a week by specially trained officers and staff at the MPS’s Central Communications Command who help deal with enquiries. For people who speak no or little English they can also dial 101 where their call will be connected with an interpreter. Callers who are deaf or have a hearing or speech impairment can use a textphone to call: 18001 101; or in an emergency it’s 18000.

We would also like to remind the public, and especially motorists, to take extra care during the expected severe weather.

For more information, go to http://www.london.gov.uk/mayor-assembly/mayor/london-resilience