Dorset Police is urging Bournemouth, Christchurch and Poole residents to contact the right agency for non-police matters as part of its Making the Right Call campaign.
This summer, calls to police contact centres have risen by a third, with around 20 percent of calls not relating to police issues and better handled by other organisations such as local authorities or utility providers.
Superintendent Stuart Pitman explained that the campaign aims to help people access the right service first time, reducing pressure on emergency lines and ensuring quicker support for the public.
Many calls received by the police could be more effectively dealt with by agencies responsible for noise complaints, fly-tipping, parking, power cuts, water supply, gas emergencies, medical advice, or public transport issues.
Residents can report crime, information and intelligence online at https://www.dorset.police.uk/../contact-us-beta/contact-us/.
Non-emergency enquiries can also be made by calling 101 or visiting enquiry offices in Bournemouth, Weymouth and Blandford. For opening times, visit Find a police station | Dorset Police. 999 should only be used if there is a danger to life or a crime in progress.
