Think before you dial 999 this bank holiday
8:40am Friday 22nd May 2009 in News By John Harrison
Paramedics have urged people to think before dialing 999 over the bank holiday weekend.
Neil Storey, Interim Associate Director of A&E services for the East of England Ambulance Service, said: "Traditionally we see a higher number of 999 calls over bank holiday weekends, which puts the ambulance service under additional pressure.
"We're asking people to ensure they're being safe so that they don't require treatment in the first place.
“However, should they find themselves in a situation where they need medical attention, they should consider whether it's a genuine emergency or not."
People with minor illness or complaints should consider calling the NHS Direct helpline on 0845 46 47, or visiting a local walk-in centre or pharmacy.
