South Western Ambulance Service asks people to 'be safe' over festive period
People are being advised to keep elderly relatives safe and only call 999 in emergencies
The South Western Ambulance Service (SWAS) is asking people in Cornwall to prioritise their wellbeing over the festive period and New Year.
With the majority of the South West under Tier 2 coronavirus restrictions, there are concerns high streets and town centres could be crowded with people doing festive shopping.
As the NHS heads into winter, there are fears a spike in COVID-19 cases could put even more strain on SWAS.
'May be just change your plan at the last moment'
Specialist paramedic, Paul Kimberley, based in Truro, told us:
"Think about when you're going around crowds and there's a lot of people around, just spread yourselves out, back off, may be just change your plan at the last moment.
"Just don't go into that crowded area, because the last thing we want to do is have another big spike with coronavirus".
In the week beginning December 7th, around 19,000 999 calls were made across the South West. On average, the number is dialled an extra 3,000 times per day during the winter period.
The Service has been running its 'Make the Right Call' campaign, reminding us that non-emergency 999 calls are putting lives at risk.
Paul told us about the alternative healthcare services for residents:
"There's a number of different pathways within the NHS that can help you - you don't have to call 999.
"For example the NHS 111 service, pharmacists and GP's, emergency dentists and even mental health helplines. They are all still available.
"I'm just hoping to look at the screens next week to see the number of calls having dropped".