Hoax callers have been told they are put lives at risk after a fake call claimed a Stevenage pub was on fire.
Yesterday a hoax caller dialled 999 and said The Chequers in Stevenage Old Town was on fire.
Two engines from Stevenage Fire Station went to the scene, but when they arrived in High Street they found nothing.
Councillor Richard Thake, cabinet member for environment and community safety at County Hall, said lives were being put at risk by these calls.
He said: “Hertfordshire Fire and Rescue Service receive approximately 300 hoax calls per year.
“They waste valuable resources and have the potential to cost lives, as while we are responding to these calls, other genuine calls are not being attended.”
The details of the mobile phone used for the call have been passed to the police.
To listen to the hoax call then play the video above.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here