East of England Ambulance Service urges public to use 999 wisely
WITH the challenging bad weather hitting most parts of the region overnight and today (Wednesday), operational bosses at the East of England Ambulance Service are calling on the public to use common sense and only call 999 for a true emergency need. Paul
WITH the challenging bad weather hitting most parts of the region overnight and today (Wednesday), operational bosses at the East of England Ambulance Service are calling on the public to use common sense and only call 999 for a true emergency need.
Paul Leaman, one of the Trust's operational associate directors, said: "Road conditions are extremely hazardous and ambulances can face difficulties reaching calls due to the adverse weather conditions.
"We are currently responding to calls for emergency assistance across the region and will be using 4 x 4 vehicles to help us reach more isolated locations.
"However, we are relying on the public's good sense to use the 999 service wisely s which will help us to respond to people who need our assistance for true emergencies."
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The ambulance service has resources in place to maintain high levels of response, and continue to provide the best care possible to patients. Management teams are monitoring the adverse weather situation 24/7 until Monday at the earliest, and this involves constantly reviewing the weather, any pockets of high demand, and working with other parts of the NHS and emergency services to support one another.
Paul continued: "At times when the ambulance service is extremely busy we really need the public to help us by using the most appropriate service for their needs.
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"If you have any doubt about whether you need a 999 response please call NHS Direct on 0845 4647 and seek advice.
"Advice is also available from pharmacies and you can see a doctor without an appointment at the GP led health centres across the region and minor injury units."
When to call 999
You should call 999 for an ambulance when it is obvious that you or another person is seriously ill and in need of immediate emergency care. Here are some examples of situations when you should call 999:
Someone is unconscious
Someone is suffering stroke symptoms
Someone is bleeding heavily
Someone may have broken bones
Someone has a deep laceration
Someone has chest pain
Someone is having difficulty breathing