Emergency services on the Yorkshire Coast are sounding the alarm following a troubling increase in hoax calls in recent months.
North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service says that these false alarms not only squander critical resources but also pose significant risks by diverting emergency responders from genuine emergencies.
Kim McLuckie, Control Room Station Manager for North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service, emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating,
“Hoax calls are not harmless pranks, they are illegal and dangerous. Every second counts in an emergency and a hoax call could delay help to someone in real need.”
The implications of making a hoax call are severe. It is a criminal offence that can lead to prosecution, with potential penalties including fines of up to £5,000 and/or a prison sentence of six months. Moreover, emergency services have the authority to disconnect the phones of individuals who repeatedly make hoax calls.
In light of this alarming trend, emergency services are urging the public to reconsider before making such calls. They are calling for community support in raising awareness about the serious consequences that accompany these actions, highlighting that the resources wasted on hoax calls could be better utilised in saving lives.
The Fire and Rescue Service hopes that increased public awareness will help mitigate the impact of hoax calls and ensure that emergency services remain available for those in genuine need, adding:
"We are urging everyone to think twice before making a hoax call and to help spread awareness about the serious consequences of such actions."
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