Reminder on correct use of 999 as summer demand set to increase
Police Scotland is reminding people to only dial 999 for emergencies as the service prepares for one of the busiest periods of the year.
The summer months see a surge in demand with people travelling, large events such as music festivals taking place and a return to normal night time economy - all resulting in more calls to the police.
In 2021, the service received 34% more calls in July compared to January. The increase of calls in the summer months places exceptional demand on the service advisors who continue to provide 24 hour support and assistance.
As the public would expect and rightly demand, Police Scotland continues to prioritise emergency 999 calls to respond to those most in need of assistance.
For non-emergencies, people should contact Police Scotland via the 101 number.
Recently, a member of the public used the emergency line to report that the bus they were waiting on had driven past them. Another called to report a blaze in a field, the person said they didn’t want to contact the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service about a small fire.
Chief Superintendent Paul Wilson, Contact, Command and Control Divisional Commander, said: “Despite increased call demand, we want to assure people that we are here to help and that we will always respond to 101 and 999 calls with compassion and professionalism.
“The 999 service is for emergencies and should only be used when there is a threat to life, suspicion that a crime is in progress or for any other serious incident that requires an immediate police response. Calling 999 for non-emergencies could put lives at risk.”
He added: “We also have online reporting forms available on the Police Scotland website which deal with a range of incidents including reporting lost property, and also enable people to report sensitive matters such as hate crime and harassment in confidence.
“People can also use the Contact Us form on the website rather than calling 101. These forms are assessed in just the same way as a call to 101 and using this form ensures callers are not kept waiting for excessive periods on the phone line during times of peak demand.”
For more information on different ways to contact the police and on partner organisations who can also help, visit the Contact Us section of the Police Scotland website.
