Four fire appliances were tied up at a hoax call in Swindon last night.
Three fire engines and an operational support unit rushed to reports of a major gas leak at a property in Beaulieu Close, Toothill, at around 8pm on Thursday (28 April).
Firefighters forced entry into a flat, quickly establishing there was no leak as reported.
Crews from Swindon, Stratton and Westlea were sent to the scene, meaning approximately 16 firefighters were unavailable for other calls whilst in attendance.
Dorset and Wiltshire Fire and Rescue Service condemned the hoax – stating that the phone number was handed over to the police, who are believed to be investigating.
Hoax calls are absolutely not acceptable, regardless if your mate did it for you”, a spokesperson said.
They added: “Not only is it an offence, but it ties up emergency operators when they can be dealing with a real incident with people in danger.
“This individual’s phone number has been reported to the Police.”
Wiltshire Police did not confirm whether or not it was probing the hoax call.
Fire crews were stood down shortly before 8.30pm.
