Sometimes what looks like a hoax call, isn't what it seems.

That is what one emergency services call operator in the US found out after a woman was insistent on getting her half pepperoni, half mushroom and peppers pizza, as soon as possible.

The emergency services worker, who posted the transcript on Reddit, said the call ‘started out pretty dumb, but was actually pretty serious’.

After dialling 911 and being asked by the operator for the address of the emergency, the woman gave her address, withholding any details of the incident.

When asked by the operator what was happening at the scene, the victim placed her pizza order, leading the baffled worker to believe they had a prank caller on the line.

Quick-thinking: The domestic abuse sufferer told police she was ordering a pizza (picture posed by model) (
Image:
Getty)

The transcript said:

"911, where is your emergency?"

"123 Main St."

"Ok, what’s going on there?"

"I’d like to order a pizza for delivery.” (oh great, another prank call).

"Ma’am, you’ve reached 911."

"Yeah, I know. Can I have a large with half pepperoni, half mushroom and peppers?"

"Ummm…. I’m sorry, you know you’ve called 911 right?"

"Yeah, do you know how long it will be?"

"Ok, Ma’am, is everything ok over there? do you have an emergency?"

"Yes, I do."

"..And you can’t talk about it because there’s someone in the room with you?” (moment of realisation)

"Yes, that’s correct. Do you know how long it will be?"

"I have an officer about a mile from your location. Are there any weapons in your house?"

"Nope."

"Can you stay on the phone with me?"

"Nope. See you soon, thanks"

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After dispatching an officer to the address, the operator checked the incident history at the house and saw there had been multiple domestic violence callouts.

When police officers arrived at the scene, they found a woman who had been badly beaten and a boyfriend who was drunk.

The operator commented on the call: "I thought she was pretty clever to use that trick. Definitely one of the most memorable calls."

Watch one domestic abuse survivor's emotional story in our video below:

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What is considered domestic abuse?

Domestic abuse is either physical, psychological, sexual or financial violence that takes place within an intimate or family-type relationship and forms a pattern of coercive and controlling behaviour.

It can include forced marriage and so-called 'honour' crimes.

Domestic violence may often include a range of abusive behaviours, which might not include physical violence.

Varied: There are several different types of domestic abuse (
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How can I escape a violent partner?

Be on alert for signs and clues that your abuser is about to hurt you and develop reasons to leave the house.

Identify safe areas of the house.

Establish a code word to let your children, friends, neighbours or colleagues know that you're in danger and to call the police.

Code: It's important to establish some kind of code word with your family and friends (
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What can the police or charities do to help?

Domestic violence charities, such as Refuge, Women's Aid, and Standing Together, have shelters for abuse victims and their families to escape to if their own home is unsafe.

Police can arrest abusers, charge them with an offence, such as common assault, remand them in custody until they appear in court, and if they are bailed, ban the offender from visiting the victim's home or they will be re-arrested.

If you are a victim of domestic violence you can call for help at the British National Domestic Violence Helpline on 0808 2000 247.