AMBULANCE crews are urging people to stay safe and well over the Easter period and choose the right health services for their condition.

With the long bank holiday coming up people of all ages are being encouraged to play safe and look after themselves and loved ones so they can enjoy their break.

And, following an exceptionally busy Saturday for the East of England Ambulance NHS Trust (EEAST) on March 24, the advice is to choose your health services carefully so everyone who needs medical treatment can benefit.

If your 999 call is not a genuine emergency, such as a suspected stroke, cardiac arrest, difficulty breathing or serious accident, you may not get an ambulance sent to you but instead be directed to the correct treatment or be given advice over the phone, leaving crews to attend to patients who really need them. If you need help but it isn’t life-threatening please choose the correct NHS service for you.

Neil Storey, associate director of emergency operations for EEAST, said: “Crews see an increase in collisions involving children over the school holidays so youngsters should be taught and encouraged to follow simple road safety rules.

“Adults should keep themselves well by avoiding overindulgence and ensuring their medicines are topped up and prescriptions kept up to date. They are also urged to keep a check on older or vulnerable family and neighbours.

“We want everyone to have a safe and happy holiday, but remember simple safety advice will help everyone enjoy their time. And 999 is a lifeline so use it carefully.”

The NHS Choose Well campaign directs people to 999 or A&E only for serious and life-threatening illnesses and injuries. You should always dial 999 in these circumstances. Otherwise other treatment options should be considered such as out of hours GP services, walk in centres and minor injuries units, pharmacies and NHS Direct.

For road safety advice, see http://www.dft.gov.uk/think/education/early-years-and-primary/parents/7-to-11s/the-green-cross-code/NHS