Ambulance Service Ready For Busy Weekend

1 June 2012, 00:00

The East of England Ambulance Service (EEAST) are getting ready for one of the busiest bank holiday periods incorporating the Queens jubilee celebrations this weekend.

Last weekend, the Trust saw a 10% increase in call demand in the region and this weekend is expected to be just as busy as the service will come under pressure as people celebrate over the long weekend.

Neil Storey, interim director of emergency operations, who is coordinating EEAST response over the weekend, said: “First and foremost we want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable time during the four day holiday, but a few simple tips will make the celebrations even more enjoyable.”

• Only dial 999 in life threatening emergency situations. This means if someone is having a stroke, they are unconscious or someone is having a suspected heart attack, please call straight away. Remember we triage all emergency calls and if its deemed non-life threatening, be prepared to wait for an ambulance resource to attend the scene as we always prioritise those in the greatest need first.

• If your injury is minor, example you have a sore foot, or your back problem you have had for weeks is playing up, please use other NHS care pathways. Ring NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or pop in to a local walk in centre or contact your GP. Also, ensure you have stocked up on your medications to cover the four day period.

• Please take care in the sun, use plenty of sun cream, keep in the shade and drink plenty of water. If you are having a barbecue, safety is paramount at all times and never start one with an accelerant, i.e. petrol.

• Spare a thought for the ambulance crews working over this busy time - if you can assist them getting to a patient at your street party or event it really does help

Neil added: “This weekend will be a special event and I hope everyone celebrating in the East of England will have a safe and enjoyable time.”