South central ambulance appeal to party goers
The ambulance service is asking people not over do it at Christmas festivities
South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SCAS) is urging people to be responsible this weekend and not overdo the Christmas Party celebrations which kick off in earnest on Friday, 20 December.
SCAS, and the wider NHS, is currently facing significant pressure and they say anything members of the public can do to help prevent avoidable emergencies will make a real difference to demand on the 999 service. By reducing such calls, SCAS say they will be able to respond more quickly to patients with life-threatening emergencies, such as cardiac arrests, strokes and heart attacks.
Busy
Mark Ainsworth, director of operations at SCAS, said:
“The last few weeks have been extremely busy for our staff and we really need the public’s help this weekend. We know that the weekend before Christmas is the time people let their hair down and party the night away.”
“While we’re not discouraging awful dance moves or questionable Christmas jumper choices, if you drink yourself into unconsciousness this can lead to an entirely avoidable emergency ambulance call out. Every ambulance sent to someone who has drunk too much and needs medical assistance means we might not have a crew immediately available for someone who is critically ill or injured.”
Tips
Drink safely
Know your limits and don’t exceed these
Make sure you eat something before going out
Have water or soft drinks between alcoholic drinks
Look after each other
Don’t leave drinks unattended
Stay together if you’re in a group
Speak to venue staff or street pastors if you feel unsafe
Plan your journey home
Check public transport timings or pre-book a taxi
Keep well away from rivers, canals and waterways
Never drive under the influence of drink or drugs
Many city centres also have nighttime services – such as First Stop in Reading – where revellers can get immediate medical assistance or a place of safety if they’re feeling vulnerable, avoiding a call to 999 or a visit to A&E.