Winter Crisis Looms: SECAmb Urges Public to Use NHS 111 and GP Services to Ease 999 Surge

Winter Warning: NHS and SECAmb Brace for Surge in Emergency Calls

As chilly months loom, the South East Coast Ambulance Service (SECAmb) urges the public to use all NHS services wisely. With 999 calls hitting a staggering 86,000 in November 2019 alone—over 2,800 calls a day—demand is expected to skyrocket again this winter.

Dial NHS 111 First to Avoid 999 Overload

Feeling unwell but it’s not an emergency? Contact NHS 111 online at www.111.nhs.uk, by phone, or chat to your GP or local pharmacist instead of ringing 999. NHS 111 is linked with SECAmb’s 999 service and out-of-hours care, offering access to GP appointments at evenings and weekends, minor injury units, urgent treatment centres, and A&E. From now on, patients may even be given a time slot for emergency departments to ease long waits.

SECAmb Deputy Director: “Save 999 for Real Emergencies”

“Our teams are working flat out, but 999 is for life-threatening or serious emergencies only,” says Emma Williams, SECAmb Deputy Director of Operations. “Use GPs and pharmacists for less severe issues. Winter can be brutal with severe weather and high pressure on services. I’m proud of our staff delivering excellent care and thank the public for their support.”

Your Winter Health Checklist

• Check your medicine cabinet – toss expired meds and restock essentials like cold remedies and painkillers.
• Keep up with repeat prescriptions for you and loved ones.
• If you’re at-risk, book your flu jab now.
• Look out for vulnerable friends and family—check homes for hazards and replace worn slippers.
• Wear sturdy shoes outdoors to avoid slips on ice.
• Service your car and pack winter essentials like blankets and a spade.
• Wear bright clothes and carry a torch when out after dark.
• Heat your home to at least 18°C, especially bedrooms and living rooms.
• Stay active indoors and layer your clothing to trap heat.
• Only call 999 for life-threatening emergencies.
• Use NHS 111, your GP, or pharmacist for all other health issues.

For more winter health tips, visit NHS Keep Warm, Keep Well.