Ambulance service warning ahead of Easter bank holiday weekend
David Williams, deputy director of operations, said bank holidays traditionally result in higher volumes of 999 calls which can put valuable resources under pressure.
He said: “Typically more people will be socialising with friends and family during the Easter break and this can lead to more people becoming ill or injured and requiring medical advice and we usually see a rise in alcohol-fuelled incidents too.
Advertisement
Hide AdAdvertisement
Hide Ad“We are not trying to stop people having a good time or deter them from calling 999 in a genuine medical emergency but what we do ask is that people look after themselves and others and think carefully about whether an emergency ambulance is the most appropriate service for their needs.”
To help ensure emergency ambulances are available for those who need them most, the service is urging people with minor conditions to consider other healthcare services available, like the local pharmacy, NHS 111 or the walk-in-centre.
Mr Williams added: “We want to make sure that this weekend is one that people will remember for all the right reasons and, more importantly, that our ambulance crews are there for those who need them most. So please act responsibly and enjoy the Easter celebrations with the spirit intended.”