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Every year South Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service receive hundreds of malicious calls - most of them from young adults. Perhaps they just think it´s funny or perhaps they think they are being really tough and rebellious. Truth is, all they have proved is that they can use a telephone - big deal!

If you dial 999 and make a hoax call you are committing several offences and could be fined £5,000, receive a 6-Month prison sentence or both!

We record all calls and every number can be traced, even pre-pay mobile phones.

All such calls are reported and details given to the malicious calls department and the police.

Mobile phone companies work with us and turn off anyone caught making hoax calls.

It could be the most expensive call a hoaxer ever makes.

Remember - While a fire engine from your local fire station is investigating a hoax call, there may be a real emergency going on.


Some think it´s a really fun idea to start a small fire such as in a bin or some dry grassy area. They even call out the fire brigade to put it out just for entertainment.

Small fires might seem quite harmless at first but can easily get out of hand and quickly endanger life and property. Skips or bins frequently have materials in them that give off poisonous deadly fumes.

It might seem like harmless fun but if you deliberately start any fire it makes you an ARSONIST and you could end up in a lot of trouble, even in prison. Click here to find out more about arson.

While a fire crew is dealing with it, there may be a real emergency where someone´s life is in danger.


We are here to help and protect the public ­ that includes you, your family and your friends. Help us to help you - don´t make hoax calls.



Updated 08-Jul-2005 Print Version Back to Top
© South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue Service