Don't call for an ambulance unless it is a real emergency, plea to revellers in Hertfordshire

SPARE a thought for ambulance crews over Christmas. That s the message as the festive period gets into full swing, and the big day is almost here. The East of England Ambulance Service is asking the public to think of the accident and emergency crews who

SPARE a thought for ambulance crews over Christmas.

That's the message as the festive period gets into full swing, and the big day is almost here.

The East of England Ambulance Service is asking the public to think of the accident and emergency crews who will be working while most others are enjoying themselves.

Ambulance paramedics, technicians and emergency care practitioners will be providing clinical care 24/7 to the communities throughout the celebrations.

The Friday before Christmas is usually described by ambulance crews as "hectic" and paramedics are preparing for an exceptionally busy night tomorrow.

Office parties and people out celebrating often need assistance and an unnecessary journey to the local accident and emergency department.

Ambulance service communications manager Gary Sanderson said: "It is inevitable that we will be called out to people who have been taken ill after drinking too much alcohol or been involved in a fight this Christmas.

"People who are under the influence of alcohol over the festive period seem to have a habit of calling for an ambulance when they don't really require it. This could potentially tie up valuable 999 resources when someone really needs it.

"We are urging the partygoers to call us if it's a real life-threatening condition, but calling 999 and asking for your drunk boyfriend to be carried upstairs to bed by paramedics is definitely not an emergency!"

He added: "The East of England Ambulance Service hopes that everyone has a safe and very enjoyable Christmas.