Yorkshire Ambulance Service prepares for busy bank holiday weekend

Ambulance bosses are asking people to only dial 999 in an emergency as they prepare for a busy bank holiday weekend.

People are asked to stock up on medicines and seek help from their GP, pharmacist, the non-emergency 111 helpline and NHS walk-in centres.

Dr David Macklin, executive director of operations at Yorkshire Ambulance Service, said: “Bank holidays usually result in higher volumes of 999 calls which can put their valuable resources under pressure. “Typically there will be more socialising with friends and family during the three-day 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. In addition, the roads are often busier and this can lead to more traffic-related incidents.

Hide Ad
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.”

Dr Macklin said paramedics often responds to patients who have reported serious injuries but find they have minor illnesses.

He said: “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 a safe bank holiday.”