Friday 20th December 2013 – 2.00pm – Claire Brown.
Ambulance staff are gearing up for one of the busiest weekends of the year and are appealing to festive drinkers to go steady……or go home.
While thousands of people across the West Midlands will be celebrating Christmas with friends and family, ambulance services across the country will be working harder than ever to deal with the expected increase in alcohol related 999 calls associated with the festive period.
Daren Fradgley, Assistant Chief Ambulance Officer, said: “We hope that everyone out celebrating has a great time, but, we’re asking people to drink responsibly so that you don’t end your night being treated by us.
“Sadly, as is always the case at this time of year, we’re expecting to see an increase in 999 calls to people who have drunk far too much alcohol. Typically our crews respond to cases of people who have slipped over and hurt themselves or been injured after alcohol fuelled misunderstandings turn to violence. We have also had cases where people have gone to sleep outside on their way home and suffered from exposure and even hypothermia when it’s cold.
“There are some common sense steps you can take to have a safe night out:
- Eat a filling meal before going out
- Pace yourself and drink water regularly
- Avoid being a victim of spiking by avoiding leaving your drink unattended
- Have a plan on how you are getting home. Book private hire cars in advance or, alternatively, only use Hackney Carriages.
- Look after your friends and keep in contact with them if you split up to ensure you all stay safe.
“If you are going out this weekend, please remember this simple advice and ensure that it really is a Happy Christmas.”
ENDS