‘Be Prepared With Your Health This Easter Bank Holiday’ Urge Welsh Ambulance Service

The Welsh Ambulance Service is calling on members of the public to plan ahead in preparation for the Easter weekend.

Over the Bank Holiday period staff at the Welsh Ambulance Service will be working hard to provide clinical care over the busy Bank Holiday period. However the Trust is asking people in Wales to help preserve the service for those facing life-threatening emergencies.

Anyone with a long term health condition for which they are already taking medication is urged to make sure they have enough of their prescription to last them the whole weekend, as pharmacies are likely to be subject to reduced opening hours or closed completely.

Members of the public are also being encouraged to keep an eye on any elderly or vulnerable family, friends or neighbours and to check their medicine cabinets are stocked with useful and in-date medication.

If you’re going away anywhere it’s important to know the full address you’re staying at and check what medical facilities are in the local area.

Richard Lee, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Director of Operations, said: “As ever, we’re expecting the Bank Holiday period to be a busy one for us. That’s why we’re asking for everyone’s help to make sure we’re there for those who are seriously ill or injured over Easter.

“If you call us for something which is not an emergency you will not be treated any quicker once you arrive at hospital, but you could cause a longer wait for someone who urgently needs our help.

“Please Choose Well and consider the range of other services available to you.”

He added: “If you’re feeling unwell and are unsure what to do, NHS Direct Wales is available 24 hours a day by calling 0845 46 47 or if you live in the Abertawe Bro Morgannwg area you can use the 111 service.

“There’s also your pharmacy, GP, Out of Hours service, opticians and Minor Injuries Unit, where there is no need for an appointment.

“The NHS Direct Wales website also has a whole host of online symptom checkers which can offer advice on common health problems.”