Police Scotland is reporting a sharp rise in the number of calls they're receiving about coronavirus.
Scots are being urged not to waste police resources by phoning to ask about Covid-19 restrictions.
They are sending out a reminder not to use the 999 and 101 numbers unless it is necessary and appropriate.
Chiefs say during the pandemic they are "continuing to provide all the essential services you expect from us, while supporting the NHS and other organisations to keep everyone safe".
A Police Scotland statement reads: "Police Scotland is experiencing a high volume of calls about COVID-19. These calls reduce response times for real policing matters. Before phoning 101 or 999 please ask yourself, is this a policing matter?
"NHS Inform and the Scottish Government have the latest COVID-19 guidance online. Misuse of 999 and 101 could cost lives. Let’s work together to keep everyone safe."
With new powers granted under the Coronavirus Act, members of the public are being reassured that an increased presence of officers will help and assist them and will engage with those who are not complying with current guidance.
A statement adds: "There will be an increased police presence on the streets across Scotland with highly visible police patrols. Our officers are there to help and assist members of the public and will seek to engage with those who are not complying with current guidance.
The powers granted under the Coronavirus Act will enable officers to fulfil their duty to uphold the law and keep the public safe.
Our officers will continue to engage with the public in a positive and constructive tone as we support our colleagues in the health service at this extraordinary time.
The powers being afforded to our officers will be used as a last resort and only where people are defying very clear and sensible advice which is designed to protect them from harm."
Reminders are also being sent out to be vigilant to a possible rise in fraud, cybercrime, domestic violence and child protection issues during the ongoing health crisis.
Police also say hate crime towards those with hidden disabilities who are unable to wear face coverings will not be tolerated.
