West Yorkshire Police have issued advice about how to report a crime without having to speak or make a sound for those who may be too scared to call 999.

There may be situations where a victim or witness may be too afraid to call the police and in this case, there is a way to alert the police whilst staying silent.

West Yorkshire Police have advised locals that they can press 55 when dialling 999 from a mobile phone, this will then let the police know that the call is a genuine emergency.

In the case that you are in danger, need to call the police, but can’t speak or make a sound, here are the steps you take.

1 - Dial 999

2 - Listen to the questions from the 999 operator

3 - Respond by coughing or tapping the handset if you can

4 - If prompted, press 55; this lets the 999 call operator know it’s a genuine emergency and you’ll be put through to the police.

Do you need to call the police but are too scared to speak or make a sound? West Yorkshire Police issue advice on reporting a crime