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Last Updated: Thursday, 23 March 2006, 21:15 GMT
Phone challenges cut hoax calls
Person making phone call
Each brigade call-out costs £1,700
Cornwall's fire brigade says the number of fake calls it is having to deal with is falling because it is challenging suspected hoaxers.

The brigade receives about 300 false calls a year. Officials say each call-out responded to costs £1,700.

Emergency services want young people in particular to be aware of the dangers of calling 999 under false pretences.

Hoaxers are being warned their calls could put lives of those genuinely in an emergency situation at risk.




SEE ALSO:
Hoax calls could endanger lives
11 Mar 06 |  Cornwall
Coastguard hunt for hoax 'idiot'
08 Feb 06 |  Wales
Hoax mayday call details released
25 Aug 05 |  Cumbria
Cliff search hoax woman arrested
08 Aug 05 |  Cornwall


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