Yorkshire police force urges public not to call 999 over Covid-19 queries

The force deals with around 30,000 incoming calls per month – equating to around 1,000 per day.

Of those, 8,000 calls per month are ‘999’ calls which typically require an immediate response.

The team make a further 15,000 outbound calls per month to request other emergency services to incidents, such as the Fire Service, Ambulance, Coastguard, other rescue services, local councils and the Highways Agency.

Since the outbreak, calls have increased by five per cent compared to last year.

In July and August this year, the force saw the highest volume of 999 calls in 11 years

Many of the calls that relate to the current COVID-19 restrictions could have been answered by visiting the gov.uk website where the latest information is available.

Force Control Room Manager, Jane Larkin, said: “Over the last few months, and mainly due to the COIVID-19 pandemic, we’ve seen a significant change in the types of calls we get into the Force Control Room. Understandably, people are often confused or unsure about the current COVID-19 restrictions and want to ask questions or be reassured that they are doing the right thing.

“We would ask members of the public to visit www.gov.uk/coronavirus rather than calling 101 if they need advice or guidance on the latest COVID-19 restrictions. Also, if people wish to tell us about a serious breach of the current restrictions then they can do so through our website at www.northyorkshire.police.uk.

“For all other enquiries please continue to use the 101 number. We are experiencing high call volumes at the moment, and you may have to wait, but we will get to you. Alternatively, if our 101 lines are busy, please press 1, leave your details and we’ll get back in touch with you through our call back service to save you hanging on the phone.

“Always dial 999 in an emergency.”