Phone fault halts 999 calls in west and south Cumbria
A cable fault means hundreds of homes in west and south Cumbria cannot reach the emergency services by dialling 999.
People in Harrington, Cockermouth, Bootle, Holme Rook, Barrow and Silverdale have either lost or have intermittent use of landline phones.
BT said it could be Sunday before the problem is resolved. Mobile phone services are not affected.
Cumbria Police have urged people to check on the safety of others known to be in a vulnerable state.
Friends and neighbours
Problems began in the Harrington area late on Friday, but spread to neighbouring areas.
Supt Ali Dufty said: "Our main priority is making sure the vulnerable members of our community are safe.
"We urge friends, relatives and neighbours to go and check on the elderly and people who may be ill and need help or just need reassurance about what to do if the situation arises.
"Mobile phone coverage is not affected. But for anyone who does not have a mobile, please try and speak to friends and neighbours who will be a point of contact in assistance is needed.
"If not an emergency ring 0845 3300247 or go to your nearest police station."