THE number of “inappropriate” calls made to 999 have dropped since the introduction of an non-emergency number, police say.

Last October, the Metropolitan Police Service brought in a non-emergency telephone number, 0300 123 1212, to allow them to respond more quickly to callers in danger.

Since its introduction, the non-emergency number has received more than one million calls across London, and now accounts for 40 per cent of all the Met's non-urgent enquiries.

During the same period calls to 999 fell by about 200,000 compared with the previous year, according to the Met's figures.

Chief Supt BJ Harrington, Commander for the MPS Central Communications Command, said: "Since its introduction 999 calls have reduced enabling us to use our resources more effectively to help those in genuine urgent need.

"We would encourage the public to store our non-emergency number, 0300 123 1212, on their mobile phone. If you ever need to contact the Met, there are now just two numbers you need."

Victims of crime are urged to call the 0300 123 1212 to report a crime that has already happened, or when seeking advice on crime and policing matters.

The 999 number is reserved for when a crime is happening, someone suspected of a crime is known to be nearby, or when someone is injured, being threatened or in danger.

Safer Neighbourhood Teams can also be contacted using their direct telephone numbers, which are available at: www.met.police.uk/saferneighbourhoods

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