Cambridgeshire Police plea to parents over hoax calls as schools break up for summer

Police are urging parents and guardians to speak to their children about the dangers and consequences of hoax calling as the summer holidays get underway.

In recent years, there has been an increase in hoax calls to police during the six-week school break.

Making hoax calls to the police on the emergency line could lead to prosecution and a hefty fine.

They place a strain on police resources and stop people in genuine need from getting through.

Parents are also urged to talk to their children about what to do if they call 999 by mistake, (to call back and let the operator know you are safe) and how to report others making hoax calls.

Superintendent Neil Billany, head of demand, said: “Due to the longer days, warmer weather and more people out and about, demand increases during the school summer holidays.

“On top of that, our 999 phone lines are also often the target of hoax calls from youngsters, messing around with their friends.

“Not only is this frustrating for our call handlers, who work tirelessly to help those in danger, but it’s also a criminal offence, and could cost lives.

“My plea to parents and carers is to make sure they educate their children on the dangers of hoax calling, and the consequences of it, not only for them, but for other people too.

“We also ask parents and carers to provide children with ideas on how to spend their time safely and out of trouble, to avoid boredom which can lead to hoax or prank calling.”

A compilation video of hoax calls to Cambridgeshire police has been released to demonstrate the need for education.

Information and advice about hoax calling can be found on the force’s dedicated information pages, along with the option to report any concerns.