The Vaud cantonal police are appealing to the public not to use the emergency phone number for anything that isn’t a genuine emergency.
In a statement the police say they’ve had calls to 117 simply enquiring about traffic, asking for the on-duty pharmacy or even just a weather forecast.
A spokesman for the force says that too many non-urgent calls is hindering the work of the operators and tying up the line for those in urgent need.
Technology is also a problem. Many calls are being sent by automated systems. Some smart watches can call if they sense a shock.
Parliament rejects WHO alcohol policy
Cyclist dies near the UN
Govt may buy fewer F-35s due to cost
Amnesty slams Bern police
Two men given house arrest after stealing vignettes
What's likely under the tree this year?
