Gwent Police are using today’s unique date – 09/09/09 – to remind people there are two ways of contacting the police.
In an emergency it is still best to dial 999 while all other non-emergency calls should go to 101.
Andy Edwards, deputy chief constable for the All Wales Team, said: “Each Police Force in Wales is working hard to ensure the public can access their services in the way they want.
“Having just two phone numbers for the Police in Wales makes calling the police a lot easier, 999 for an emergency and 101 when you need to speak to the police and don’t need a blue light response.
“This project been possible as the four forces in Wales recognised an opportunity to provide a single service that would improve customer service and hopefully increase confidence of the public that they can contact the police when ever they need them.”
The new 101 number was introduced in April.
Mr Edwards added: “The response from the public has been very good. The number of callers taking advantage of the easy to remember number has steadily increased since April and as a result of this campaign we are hoping that the numbers increase further.
“However, we still recognise that people may want to contact the force from outside Wales or for reasons other than reporting crimes.
“As such the existing switchboard number of 01633 838111 for Gwent Police will continue to operate.”
