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 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 will be able to respond more quickly to patients with life-threatening emergencies, such as cardiac arrests, strokes and heart attacks.
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.”
SCAS would like people to follow its top tips for a safe and enjoyable party weekend that doesn’t end up in the back of an ambulance, at hospital or worse.
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 or Safe Space in Portsmouth – 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.