Health Department warns of phony calls

BUFFALO, N.Y. (RELEASE) - The Erie County Department of Health (ECDOH) has been informed that area restaurants have been receiving calls from individuals identifying themselves as inspectors with the Health Department. The call informs the restaurant employee that an inspection will be conducted at 3:00 p.m. the following day. The caller claims that he needs the person’s name and cell phone number in order to confirm the inspection.

Health Commissioner Anthony J. Billittier wants everyone to know that this is not the protocol established for an inspection, and warns restaurant employees to hang up immediately when receiving a call of this nature. Dr. Billittier also stated that the ECDOH will be working with law enforcement agencies to determine the source of these calls.

Should anyone receive one of these calls, they are asked to contact ECDOH at 961-6800.