In a drive to reduce improper use of the 999 number over the Christmas period, the Metropolitan Police Service has released 12 examples of inappropriate calls to 999 that could have prevented others from getting through to police.The Christmas and New Year period traditionally sees the 999 emergency number at its busiest. This, coupled with a significant increase in call volumes over the past year, has prompted the Met to urge the public to ensure people understand how to get in touch with police without putting unnecessary strain on the 999 system.