Policing in the United Kingdom is carried out by regional police forces that operate independently but follow national laws and standards. For expats, one noticeable difference is that most police officers in the UK do not routinely carry firearms, as policing is traditionally based on community presence and public consent. Expats in the UK will often see officers on foot patrols, bicycles, or in marked vehicles, particularly in town centres and residential areas. Police responsibilities include crime prevention, responding to emergencies, traffic enforcement, and public safety. Expats in the UK can contact the police by calling 999 in an emergency or 101 for non-urgent matters, such as reporting minor crimes. The police are generally approachable, and many forces engage actively with local communities. While policing styles may differ from other countries, most expats find UK policing professional, restrained, and focused on maintaining public trust and safety.