Revellers Urged To Use Emergency Services Responsibly Over New Year’s

Ahead of one of the busiest nights of the year, a reminder to stay safe and think carefully before dialling 999 this New Year’s has been issued by Welsh emergency services

Traditionally New Year’s Eve is one of the most popular events of the year, with thousands descending on local pubs and clubs / throwing house parties to celebrate the New Year.

With just hours to go until the New Year’s celebrations being, a reminder to keep safe and to stay out of danger has been issued.

North Wales Police are encouraging revellers to have an enjoyable but safe New Year’s Eve as officers prepare for one of the busiest times of the year.

Extra patrols will be on duty across the region making sure that any trouble is dealt with quickly and appropriately, so that it doesn’t cause an issue for the vast majority of people who are simply out for a good time.

The message also comes as part of the Force’s #SaferChristmas campaign which has included a reminder regarding the appropriate use of 999 and the promotion of 101, the non-emergency line.

Deputy Chief Constable Gareth Pritchard from North Wales Police said: “We hope everyone out celebrating the New Year will have fun, but will behave sensibly and not spoil the festivities for themselves and others.

“We are also reminding people not to clog the 999 system with trivial issues, particularly on what is likely to be one of the busiest nights of the year for emergency services.

“There will be increased patrols across the area over New Year’s Eve and we are also working closely with other agencies including licensed premises and local authorities.

Across Wales a number of refuge centres are being set up for the night, offering support and a warm place to recover from the effects of too much alcohol.

In Wrexham, a welfare centre operated by Betsi Cadwaladr University Health Board (BCUHB) with support from the British Red Cross will be operating from the Victoria Youth Centre on Hill Street from 10pm-4am offering shelter, basic first aid and a warm place to recover from the effects of too much alcohol.

Gordon Roberts, the Welsh Ambulance Service’s Interim National Head of Operations, said: “New Year’s Eve is historically a very busy evening for our call takers, dispatchers, crews and managers. Many of the people we’re called to on New Year’s Eve have injured themselves or become unwell because they’ve had too much to drink.

“This puts extra strain on us and means our ambulances may not be available for those with a life-threatening injury or illness, such as someone in cardiac arrest or someone who is having a stroke.”

Mr Roberts added: “Our message to party-goers is to bring in the New Year safely and responsibly; enjoy the celebrations but please think carefully before dialling 999.

“For advice and treatment of most illnesses, call NHS Direct Wales on 0845 46 47 for confidential health advice and information.

“Treatment for minor injuries, such as cuts, bites, muscle and joint injuries is offered at your local Minor Injuries Unit, where there is no need for an appointment. Remember only dial 999 if someone is seriously ill or injured, or their life is at risk.”

However you are spending your New Year’s Eve / New Year’s Day, we hope you have an enjoyable time – and more importantly, stay safe!