999 Calls Set to Surge Again This Winter – NHS Issues Vital Warning
The South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) is bracing for a tidal wave of 999 calls as winter approaches. Last November alone, SECAmb handled over 86,000 emergency calls – that’s a staggering 2,800 per day. This winter looks set to be just as busy.
NHS 111 and GP Services: Your First Stop for Non-Emergencies
SECAmb urges the public to use NHS 111, either by phone or online at www.111.nhs.uk, or to consult GPs and pharmacists before dialing 999. NHS 111 is linked with 999 and out-of-hours care, offering access to evening and weekend GP appointments, home visits, minor injury units, urgent treatment centres, and A&E departments.
“999 is for life-threatening or serious emergencies only,” says SECAmb Deputy Director of Operations Emma Williams. “We want people to use the variety of other NHS services available. This helps us focus on those who need us most.”
Top Winter Safety Tips From SECAmb
- Check your medicine cabinet – replace out-of-date items and restock essentials like painkillers, cold remedies, and indigestion tablets.
- Keep repeat prescriptions up to date for yourself and family.
- Book flu jabs if you or loved ones are in at-risk groups.
- Look out for vulnerable family and friends – check their homes for hazards and consider replacing slippers to prevent falls.
- Wear proper footwear outside, especially on icy days – slips and trips spike in winter.
- Make sure your car is serviced and equip it with winter essentials like a blanket and spade.
- Wear bright clothing and carry a torch when walking at night to stay visible.
- Heat your home to at least 18°C, especially bedrooms, and reduce drafts.
- Keep active indoors; avoid sitting still for over an hour.
- Wear several layers of light clothing instead of one bulky layer to trap warmth.
Stay Safe and Help the NHS This Winter
Emma Williams added, “Winter challenges like severe weather will test us again. I’m proud of everyone at SECAmb working tirelessly to keep you safe. Please support us by ringing 999 only in emergencies and using NHS 111 or your GP for everything else.”
For more winter health advice, visit NHS Keep Warm Keep Well.
