RESIDENTS are being reminded that they can make a silent 999 call to Dorset Police.

The force wants to let people know that they can call the emergency number if they are in danger and cannot speak.

Police advise that if whispering is not possible people will be asked to cough or to tap the keys on their phone to answer questions. 

For those who call 999 on a mobile and don't speak or answer questions, they can press 55 when prompted and their call will be transferred to the police. 

Pressing 55 only works on mobiles and doesn't allow the police to track your location. If you don't press 55 your call will be ended.

For those calling 999 from a landline, if they don't speak or answer questions and the operator can only hear background noise, they'll transfer the call to the police. 

If you replace the handset, the landline may remain connected for 45 seconds in case you pick it up again.

Calling 999 from a landline automatically gives the police information about your location.