Over 3,000 calls to be made to SECamb as clock strikes twelve on New Years Eve
The ambulance service says alcohol intake's a huge factor in its phones "constantly ringing" once midnight hits
Last updated 31st Dec 2024
The South East Coast Ambulance service has predicted it will receive around 3,500 calls when the clock strikes 12 on New Year's Eve.
They've shared that they're expecting their phone lines to be 'constantly ringing', with alcohol intake a contributing factor to a spike in calls.
However, they'll also be balancing those calls with "winter-related illnesses" or dealing with more severe call outs, such as heart attacks or strokes.
Richard Harker, frontline manager for SECAMB's East Sussex services, said they're now sharing a "simple message" of "be sensible": "Keep alcohol to sensible limits, make sure you have any medications that you would usually take with you during this period, and of course reserve the 999 system wherever possible for those true emergencies.
"If it's something falling short of an emergency, we do have our 111 service which can provide appropriate advice and guidance in these situations."
He added that they're increasing staffing in their control rooms to ensure speedy response times despite the demand - though 111 services could receive up to 8,000 calls a day on public holidays.
"During December, we expect to receive in the region of 90,000 emergency calls.
"Please have a lovely Christmas, and a lovely new year, but try and stay as safe as you can.
"We are there if you need us."