Cambridgeshire Police deal with nearly 30 hoax 999 calls in just four days
Cambridgeshire police have had to deal with nearly 30 hoax calls in less than a week.
From people swearing down the line, to children giggling and telling jokes, the calls have prevented call handlers from dealing with genuine emergencies - something that could put lives in danger.
Since Monday, call handlers have dealt with 27 hoax and nuisance calls.
A police spokesman said: “It is important you speak to children about the serious dangers of making a hoax call. Some children do not realise the danger they are placing others in and may see it as part of a practical joke.
“Your children need to be aware that if they make hoax calls they are endangering other people’s lives.”
Misusing the 999 system and dialing it for non-emergency matters to report crimes or emergencies that do not exist can cost lives.
Misuse of 999 and hoax calls are a criminal offence. You could face a maximum penalty of up to six months in prison or a fine of £5,000.