Football fans urged to support SECAmb as World Cup kicks off
The Ambulance Service typically sees an increased demand during tournaments.
South East Coast Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SECAmb) has asked the public and those in Surrey and East Hampshire for its support as the World Cup begins this week.
England and Wales kick off their campaigns today, 21 November, against Iran and USA, and face each other on Tuesday 29 November.
An increase in demand has been seen by the service in previous football tournaments after the final whistle, and are urging football fans to only dial 999 in a serious emergency.
SECAmb received 50% more 999 calls in the hour after England's semi-final victory at Euro 2020 than in the previous hour.
After a dip in calls whilst the game was taking place, the 999 control room staff answered 150 calls in the hour after the final whistle.
The Trust is also reminding people of services available who feels at risk or knows others who are at risk of domestic violence, with evidence suggesting a link between high-profile football matches and an increase in domestic violence.
The public are reminded to make use of alternative NHS support services including NHS 111, which is available online at www.111.nhs.uk or by calling 111, where they can provide help and advice.
SECAmb Executive Director of Operations, Emma Williams, said: “We know that many people will be looking forward to watching and cheering on their country of choice over the course of the next few weeks.
“We also know that large scale events, including football matches, especially those at later stages of an international tournament, can create addition demand on our services.
“We have even seen call volume drop during a big game, only for it to rise almost immediately after the final whistle. If anyone is truly facing an emergency they should never delay calling us, but if someone feels their call can wait until the end of a game, it’s very likely their call could be better managed elsewhere.
“The public can really help us manage our demand by keeping 999 for serious emergencies and by making use of alternatives for help and advice including NHS 111 online at 111.nhs.uk.
“We urge people to be sensible if choosing to drink alcohol while watching any game and look after themselves and others to reduce the likelihood of having to call on the help of the ambulance service.”