Emergencies – should you call the police or Security Services?

Reporting incidents in the right way means suitable assistance can arrive more quickly; it will help ensure emergencies are managed properly and keep everyone safe. 

If you witness a crime in progress, a person being harmed or threatened, or property being damaged, call the police on 999. This includes incidents like assault, bike theft, breaking and entering, or vandalism.  

Please inform OUSS too after the police are called, to ensure proper documentation and follow-up actions. 

In non-emergencies – for example, if you witness people acting suspiciously, or if a building needs temporary security after being damaged by weather or other causes, please contact Security Services (OUSS). They will secure the area and contact the police if appropriate. 

You can call Security Services on 01865 2 72944 and security.control@admin.ox.ac.uk.