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Islanders are being urged to think before they dial 999 after the Emergency Services reported a huge surge in calls due to covid-19 “nervousness."
The number is only supposed to be used in case of emergencies, but officials said that many enquiries in the last week have not required an urgent response.
Instead, those experiencing symptoms of corona virus should call the dedicated helpline.
Anyone else should refer to the government’s website for more information on how to respond.
Pictured: Islanders' "nervousness" about covid-19 is "fuelling" the misuse of the 999 number, Emergency Service officials said.
“We understand that there is nervousness related to COVID-19 but the Government have robust measures in place and have set up a hotline for those who think they may have symptoms, or have been in contact with someone who has,” Gordon Hunt from the States of Jersey Ambulance Service said.
He continued: “We are finding that people are ringing the hotline but then calling us on 999 if they’re not getting the response that they want. This is not an acceptable use of a vital service.
“Inappropriate use of 999 is not new, but the current situation is fuelling the issue.
“It’s so important that we work as an Island to ensure that we preserve emergency assets for those who really need them. Please think before you dial.”
As a result of the pandemic, the Emergency Services are changing their call handling procedures.
Those calling either 999 or 612612 for non-urgent enquiries may be asked a series of questions relating to covid-19.
This, officials said, will help them determine how to handle each call in the safest possible way.
Police Inspector Huw Williams explained: “We ask these extra questions so that we can promote the safety of everyone involved and reduce the speed of the virus spreading.
“The answers will not affect whether we respond to calls for service, it just means our staff can take appropriate precautions where they do attend.
“It is really important that people are honest with their responses.”
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