As many have said already this is a scam. These calls on behalf of police and firefighters have been going on for decades. I have repeatedly added my name to do not call lists, but it has very little impact.

Instead, I never answer any call that I do not recognize the number. If it is important, then they will leave a voicemail and I delete if it is any type of solicitation or scam.

My favorite are the voicemails about car warranty expiring, Microsoft identified an issue with my computer, cable provider calling about a network issue, I have won a prize, and my child has been arrested and they need bail money using a credit card or wire transfer.

I have different strategies for email or text scams, but be smart about all potential scams. Incoming call rules that I follow:

Rule #1 - don’t answer calls from anyone outside my contact list.

Rule #2 - never call back due to voicemails about questionable debit or credit transaction using the incoming number. Instead, use the number on the back of the card or on a financial statement.