Cambridgeshire Police deal with nearly 30 hoax 999 calls in just four days

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.