Dorset residents warned of non-emergency call delays due to police staff shortage

Calls to Dorset Police's non-emergency 101 number will have longer waiting times, due to a staff shortage.

In a statement online, the force said a number of its Command Centre Staff have tested positive for Covid or are having to self-isolate.

While emergency 999 calls will be prioritised, people are being urged to email or report a crime online, when it's not an emergency.

When should I call 999?

South Western Ambulance Service says a 999 call should only be made in a life-threatening emergency. Examples of this may include:

• Chest pain, breathing difficulties, heart attack

• Stroke

• Severe bleeding

• Severe allergic reactions, burns or scalds

• Serious head injuries

• Major trauma i.e. traffic accident or fall from height

The shortage of emergency call staff comes as BCP Council has also warned residents that bin collections might be missed over the next few days because staff are self-isolating.

The council says they're working hard to ensure all bins are being emptied.

Residents are being asked to leave out their bins if they are missed, as a catch-up collection is due to take place.