Cambridgeshire Police have issued a desperate plea to parents to warn children about the dangers of hoax 999 calls.

In the summer holidays, the force experiences a rise in hoax calls coming from children while they are off school.

However, not every child knows that a hoax 999 call is a criminal offence which can lead to prosecution and a hefty fine. 

As the school holidays start for many, Cambridgeshire Police are urging parents to talk to their children about what to do if they call 999 by mistake (call back and let the operator know you are safe) and how to report other people making hoax calls.

The force has released a video of all of the hoax calls they have received as a warning for children this summer.

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."

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