Welsh Ambulance Service urges public to use 999 responsibly over Easter Bank Holiday
The Welsh Ambulance Service is urging people to use 999 responsibly over the four-day Bank Holiday weekend.
The Easter period is traditionally one of high-demand for the service and wider NHS, with a warning that some people may wait longer for help.
To keep emergency services available for life-threatening situations, the Trust is reminding the public to consider alternative healthcare options before calling 999.
Ahead of the Bank Holiday weekend, the Trust is advising people to:
- Collect any prescription medication they may need and make sure they have basic first aid supplies at home to manage minor illnesses or injuries.
- If you are unwell or have a minor injury, you can visit the NHS 111 Wales website or try Albot – The NHS Wales Digital assistant, which can help you find answers to most questions and can help you access the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
- Services such as local pharmacies and Minor Injury Units can also provide advice and treatment for a range of non-urgent health concerns.
- Drink responsibly, by consuming alcohol in moderation, eating before drinking and by alternating alcoholic drinks with soft drinks.
- Plan your journey home in advance and never drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
- Check in on elderly or vulnerable relatives, friends and neighbours to ensure they have the medication and support they may need during the holiday period.
Judith Bryce, Assistant Director of Operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said the service saw a 44% increase in calls to its 111 service over Easter last year compared to the previous week.
“As always, we expect the Easter Bank Holiday to be a busy time for our services, and we’re asking the public to help us ensure our crews are available for those with the most serious and life-threatening conditions,” said Judith.
“Over the Easter period last year, we saw a 44% increase in the number of calls to our 111 service, compared to the same period in the previous week.
“It’s great to know that people are using the 111 service instead of calling 999 for minor conditions as this really helps keep our resources available for the most serious incidents.
“Remember, if you call 999 for something that isn’t an emergency, it could mean vital time and resources are taken away from someone who urgently needs our help.
“It’s also important to remember that arriving at hospital by ambulance does not mean you will be seen any sooner in the emergency department.”
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