Keep 999 for emergencies in South West this Easter

South Western Ambulance Service is asking people to use the right healthcare service this Easter bank holiday weekend

An ambulance trust is asking residents and tourists in the South West to only dial 999 in a life-threatening emergency over Easter weekend.

Wayne Darch, of the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT), said they are expecting a busy time over the bank holiday.

Mr Darch said: "This will ensure we have crews available for patients with the most life-threatening conditions."

The public are advised to use NHS 111 online for non-life-threatening help.

People are also being asked to ensure they have ordered and collected any repeat medicines and to make use of community pharmacies, which can advise on minor illnesses and provide medications.

People are also asked not to call 999 back for an estimated arrival time of an ambulance.

They should only call back if the patient's condition worsens or they no longer need an ambulance to help keep phone lines free for others in need.

Mr Darch, who is deputy director of operations, added: Please only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency, this will ensure we have crews available for patients with the most life-threatening conditions.

"I would also like to thank our people and NHS colleagues who will be working over the Easter weekend to help keep us all safe and well.

"Should you need their support, please be kind to them, they are working hard under huge pressures currently."

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