Ellesmere Port residents have been warned of technical difficulties meaning that landlines are unable to access emergency services via 999.
The incident is said to be affecting landline users in parts of the town.
Cheshire Fire and Rescue Service, which is aware of the problem, has advised residents in the area that, in the event of a genuine emergency, they should call 999 from a mobile phone this afternoon (Wednesday, May 1).
The technical difficulties are expected to be resolved from 7.50pm on Wednesday.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here