POLICE Scotland has today launched a campaign, reminding people of the appropriate way to use the 101 and 999 numbers.

The force says most people use the 101 non-emergency and the 999 emergency numbers properly, but highlighted some amusing instances when this was not the case.

Apparently, a woman once called 999 to report her snowman had been stolen, while on another occasion a man called to say he had been given a “dirty look” by his neighbour.

Reporting the case of a large spider in her house, a woman dialled 101 to ask for help as the creature wouldn't let her sleep.

Furthermore, a male caller asked what to do if his car tyres were under-inflated, an on another occasion a woman called asking the police to check her height.

Chief Superintendent Roddy Newbigging, divisional commander of Police Scotland’s Contact Command and Control Division, said: “Our campaign is a timely reminder to people to use 101 and 999 properly.

“Call handlers deal with a call every 10 seconds. They are highly trained, skilled and knowledgeable and are there to help.

“Most people contact the police appropriately but there are a small percentage who do not – this abuse of 101 and 999 could cost lives.

“Our message is simple - if it’s an emergency call 999. In a non-emergency situation, dial 101.”

Nearly 3 million 101 non-emergency calls are made in Scotland every year and just under 500,000 emergency calls are placed through 999.

The 101 number is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week and can be used from anywhere in Scotland to contact police or any other force in the UK. Calling 101 costs a flat rate of 15p from both landline and mobile phones, no matter how long the call is or what time of day it is.

Members of the public can also use the website scotland.police.uk to report a range of issues including domestic abuse, hate crime, child abuse, wildlife crime and lost property.

Alternatively approach an officer on duty or attend a police office front counter.