POLICE are urging people to think before they dial 101 with a new four-step rule.

Officers want the public to make the right choice and consider all of the options for getting in touch or finding information from them with the new rule.

Designed to help people get the best help as quickly as possible, the four-step rule asks people to consider who they call about an issue, if information is already readily available or whether they should be calling 101 or 999.

Greater Manchester Police’s new website and an online chat functionality has helped the force give people different contact methods and they are now asking people to think before they pick up the phone.

Assistant chief constable Vanessa Jardine said: “At a time when we’re working to ensure we are focused on keeping people safe we are always looking to find new ways to work more efficiently and effectively.

“This includes looking at how we can provide access to services in the most effective way possible.

“We need to encourage people to think a little differently than they have before – calling us on 101 is often people’s go-to reaction when they need advice outside of an emergency.

“We want to help people realise that there is already lots of information out there, that sometimes there are more appropriate or specialist services available but that ultimately, we will always be on hand if someone needs us.

“We are committed to supporting the people of Greater Manchester, and want to provide the best service we possibly can. We all need to work together to achieve this.”

GMP received 1.5 million calls in the year leading up to July 2017. The new four-step rule is as follows: • Step 1: Is it a police issue? Or is there another service that is better suited? Look online at GMP’s most asked questions for advice on who can best help.

• Step 2: Is the information already on GMP’s website? There is crime prevention advice and information on your local neighbourhood policing team at gmp.police.uk. There is also a place for you to ask questions if you need to.

• Step 3. Has a crime already happened, and you want to report it? Do you want to share some information with us? Call 101.

• Step 4. Is a crime happening right now, or is a life or property at risk? Call 999 right away.

Visit www.gmp.police.uk/gmp4u for full information.