Force to share series of calls reminding the public to keep 999 for emergencies only
Dorset Police is sharing an example of people misusing the 999-emergency line following a recent appeal to the public after an influx of calls at the Force’s busiest time of the year.
The first clip is one in a series to highlight some of the calls received to 999 during the busy summer months that do not relate to a crime or even a police matter.
Chief Superintendent Julie Howe, of Dorset Police, said: “We are releasing a variety of short snippets to remind the public to only call 999 if there is a crime in progress or danger to life.
“Misusing the emergency line means we get to people in real need less quickly. Calling 999 for anything else, other than a crime in progress or danger to life, may slow down our response to people who may be in immediate danger or witnessing a crime.
“The clips we are releasing demonstrate the examples of calls our staff receive, with several a day often not relating to an emergency, crime or even a police matter.
“Our message is very clear: if there is a crime in progress or a danger to life, please continue to call 999. In non-emergency situations, you can contact us on 101, fill in an online form on the Dorset Police website or by reporting a non-urgent crime at a police station enquiry office or community contact point. We can only help on police matters.
“We want everyone to have a good, safe summer. You will see us out at busy locations as part of our high-visibility patrols helping you stay safe.”
Please call 999 if there is a danger to life or crime in progress. To provide information in a non-emergency situation call 101 or visit the Dorset Police website: https://www.dorset.police.uk/
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