A HOAX emergency call has prompted a stark warning from Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service.
Crews were called to a house fire in Leamington this morning (Thursday) which turned out to be a hoax.
The team has warned all callers could be identified and pranks may lead to prosecution.
The service tweeted: “Not only do hoax calls take our resources away from where they are needed the most, but those making the calls are also putting themselves at risk. Even if you have caller identity restricted, the telephone number the call is made from is instantly known by the operator and all calls to the fire service control room are recorded. If you are caught, you could be jailed, fined or both!
“It could be the most expensive call you have ever made!
“So why take the risk – hoax calls cost lives, time and resources and stop us from being where we are needed the most.”