Now, before we begin this post, it’s important to get one thing straight. These numbers can get you out of a fix – but we aren’t advocating using your Phone while driving. A Bluetooth set and speaker phone are safer than using your handset, of course. But, any distraction to your driving can lead to danger. So, this guide is more for those moments when you find yourself in a spot of bother.

OK, so now we have that out of the way, what’s on our list? There are five numbers that you should think about first – so make sure you set your phone up and are ready for anything. Let’s take a look at those numbers and reveal why you should have them on speed dial.

Your local police station

First of all, you never know what you might see while out and about on the roads. And, it’s important to understand the difference between an emergency and a less formal inquiry. Everyone knows 999, of course, but you should also have your local police station’s number on your phone, too. It frees up the emergency services to do what they do best, but also gives you the opportunity to report a less severe incident.

RSPCA

Sick or injured animals are a common sight on British roads. It’s typical to see a few dead badgers and foxes by any stretch of motorway. And, there might be a time when you come across an injured cat or dog – or even a deer. When that event occurs, what’s the best thing to do? Unless you are a trained vet, it’s a wise idea to call the RSPCA. You won’t know whether the creature in question is suffering from a disease or not, for a start. And, there may be a family out there devastated because they have lost a pet. It could also be a danger to other road users – so make sure you have the number of your local branch stored on your phone.

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Your breakdown company

It’s amazing how many people don’t keep details of their breakdown cover in their car. So, go the extra mile and put their number on your phone, too. Cars break down all the time, no matter how good a driver you are. And, the quicker you make the call, the shorter you will have to wait. Don’t waste time faffing around in your glove box and trying to find the details – store them on your phone instead.

Other services

Of course, if you don’t have breakdown cover, it’s going to be expensive to call out a tow truck. So, it might be a bright idea to look for alternative services instead. For example, mobile tyre fitters offer a specialist service if you have a blowout – and could be cheaper than using a full breakdown service. Also, add in the numbers of any mechanics you know. You never know where you will break down, and they could be in a position to give you a hand with simple repairs  – at a much lower cost.

ICE numbers

Finally, set up your next of kin and close relations as ICE numbers. It stands for ‘in case of emergency’, and should anything happen to you; the emergency services will use it to call the relevant people. You can find out more here.

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