UK networks may route a 999 or 112 call over Wi‑Fi when mobile service is unavailable, but location information can be less reliable and behaviour differs by provider.
What happens in principle
The phone and network may first try an available mobile route. If the provider supports emergency calling over Wi‑Fi and no mobile route is available, the call may use Wi‑Fi Calling. O2’s current terms state that automatic location may not be available in that situation; EE also warns that location transmission cannot be guaranteed.
What you should do in a real emergency
- Call 999 or 112 using the available route.
- State the full address or location immediately and describe landmarks if necessary.
- Say if you are calling through Wi‑Fi or from a location with no mobile signal.
- Follow the call handler’s instructions and do not hang up unless told to do so.
- If the call cannot connect, use another phone, network, landline or person nearby.
Prepare without placing a test call
- Enable Wi‑Fi Calling and verify it with an ordinary call.
- Keep the phone’s emergency information and location services current.
- Know the property’s full address and access details.
- Keep the router and phone charged; consider backup power where appropriate.
- Maintain another route for households with medical or telecare needs.
Household preparation
Place the address where it is easy to read, keep entrances and access instructions clear, and ensure every household member knows that a Wi‑Fi call may not provide precise location automatically. Users with communication or accessibility needs should review the phone’s emergency features and agree a backup contact method before a fault occurs.
What should prove the result
Treat Wi‑Fi Calling as an additional route, not a guaranteed emergency service. Keep the emergency address current if the provider requests one, know the exact physical location and maintain another way to call if broadband, power or the operator's service fails. Never place a test call to 999 or 112.
- Review the provider's current emergency limitations.
- Make ordinary test calls only.
- Ensure another household member knows the fallback route.
Official sources
- O2 — Pay Monthly tariff terms: WiFi Calling and emergency calls
- EE — Using WiFi Calling
- Ofcom — Compliance programme into access to emergency services
Facts checked: 25 July 2026. Network features, device menus and coverage can change. Recheck your exact phone model, software version, network and plan before relying on a feature.
