Hoax calls were costly and could delay the brigade response to genuine emergencies, says Masterton station officer Kevin Smith.
Hoax calls were costly and could delay the brigade response to genuine emergencies, says Masterton station officer Kevin Smith.
Masterton firefighters were left frustrated in the wake of a hoax fire call yesterday.
Station officer Kevin Smith said a person called the fire brigade at 11.30am and gave an address in Hogg Cres, Masterton, saying a house was on fire.
"We investigated it. There was no fire or signof fire. We have left the incident with the police. The police [are] speaking to the caller," Mr Smith said.
False calls were costly and could delay the brigade's response to genuine emergencies. "If we have a genuine call then we're obviously delayed because we're attending a call that's not genuine and it costs us money. There is quite a considerable cost to the Fire Service involved. For any property fire it's standard practice to send two appliances and crews."
