Party-goers warned to stay safe on Black Friday

Dubbed Black Friday, it traditionally sees one of the year’s heaviest volumes of 999 calls, due to a combination of dipping temperatures and festive over-indulgence on the last full weekend before Christmas.

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) bosses are advising revellers to party safely so they don’t put their own health or that of others at risk.

Alan Murray, Director of Service Delivery for EEAST said: “A night out which ends up in A & E is not fun, but one which is done without a risk to yourself where you end up getting home safe and sound is and it just requires being a little more conscious about drinking.

“Don’t drink on an empty stomach, include soft drinks and lots of water and plan your journey home. Pre-book a taxi if need be.”

Last year Friday December 17 alone saw 2,121 calls to 999 - a 25 per cent increase in calls on the Friday four weeks previously.

EEAST is putting on extra resources to cope with the increase in demand but is urging people not to call unnecessarily so they can get to the patients who really need their help.

Mr Murray said: “Please don’t call 999 unless it is an emergency so the patients who do really need us can be seen.”

Even without adverse weather conditions such as snow, use of the ambulance service rises significantly at this time of year.

Associate Director of Emergency Operations Neil Storey said if the public ensured they kept well and kept safe, and knew when to call 999, everyone could benefit.

He said: “Parties and get togethers are a big feature of this time of year and while we are not against people having a good time, the public need to take responsibility for enjoying themselves safely.

“This might mean drinking alcohol responsibly - sadly some people still risk seriously injuring themselves or others through alcohol-related incidents, such as driving under the influence of alcohol, or excessive behaviour leading to assaults or accidents.”