Ambulance trust urges caution over festive period

The ambulance service working across the South East has asked for the public's support ahead of a busy festive period.

According to the South East Coast Ambulance Service (Secamb), busy days are particularly expected after long bank holiday periods where 999 calls are likely to exceed 3,000.

Teams handled close to 90,000 calls to 999 in December 2024, a near 10% increase on the previous month, according to the trust.

Secamb chief operating officer Jen Allan said: "The weeks leading up to Christmas and beyond are always a busy time of year for the ambulance service and we have worked hard to prepare.

"As demand on our 999 service increases, the public can help us be available for those facing an emergency by ensuring that they make use of alternatives where appropriate."

Over the Christmas period Secamb will be prioritising the most seriously ill and injured patients, she added.

People are urged not to dismiss serious conditions such as chest pain and to call 999 at the onset of symptoms, instead of letting them worsen over the Christmas period.

Callers with less serious conditions will receive advice from a clinician over the phone and may be directed to a more appropriate service.

The public are asked to ensure they order repeat prescriptions well ahead of time, and to get the flu vaccine when suitable.

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