North Yorkshire Police have asked residents to refrain from calling 999 to report hosepipe ban breaches.
The plea comes ahead of the ban, which came into effect on Friday 11th July.
Temporary restrictions prevent the use of a hosepipe to water the garden or clean cars, among other activities.
A police spokesperson said:
“Any call made to the police about this could divert our call handlers away from dealing with real emergencies.
“So, if you have any questions about the restrictions, or any concerns about a potential breach, we would please ask that you follow the latest advice from Yorkshire Water, or your water provider.”
Due to the hot and dry weather, Yorkshire Water have been forced to supply an additional 4.3 billion litres of water between April and June compared with a typical year.
As a result, Yorkshire’s reservoirs are currently at 55.8% - 26.1% lower than they would normally be at this time of year.
But residents are being asked not to report neighbours or other breaches via 999.
A police spokesperson added:
“Let's keep our colleagues free to take genuine calls from those really in need of help.
“As always, if a crime is in progress or if there is an immediate risk to person or property, always dial 999.
“If a crime is not in progress, then please consider reporting the incident online to us via our website in the first instance. Alternatively, you can call 101.”

Spellman Care support Airedale Hospital & Community Charity's Easter Appeal
Skipton MP heads to Westminster to talk challenges within hospitality sector
Skipton man jailed for 18 years for sexual offences against children
The Geek Side announces closure before 10th anniversary
Skipon Multisport Festival to be held this May
Local attractions to close as Met Office issues yellow weather warning for wind
17 year old arrested following high speed pursuit from Skipton
The Coniston Hotel to remain under family ownership
Airedale Hospital introduces new service for prostate cancer
Appletreewick pub shortlisted in Countryside Alliance ‘Rural Oscars’
Yorkshire residents needed for new series of BBC's Gladiators
Taxi policy change could "finish off" industry, councillors warned
Skipton children’s charity collaborates with luxury makeup brand
Police appeal after two vehicle collision in Skipton
Village panto raises over £3,000 for good causes
Nominations open for Airedale NHS Foundation Trust Governor elections
Call for volunteers to tackle litterbugs in clean-up campaign
Community Centre in Silsden to hold two day sale fundraiser
Search for missing man continues
Skipton MP shares update on redevelopment of Airedale Hospital


