Welsh Ambulance Service issues bank holiday 999 call warning
Bank holidays are traditionally busy for the service, with 1,197 emergency calls and 3,305 urgent but non-life-threatening calls to NHS 111 Wales made last year.
This marked a three per cent rise in 999 calls and a staggering 70 per cent increase in NHS 111 Wales calls compared to the previous week.
Sonia Thompson, the trust's assistant director of operations, said: "As we approach the second bank holiday of the month, it's important to prioritise safety for ourselves and our loved ones.
"The three-day weekends often bring about increased activities and gatherings, particularly when the weather is good, so here are some valuable tips to make your bank holiday weekend both fun and safe."
The trust advises stocking up on prescription medications before the weekend, consuming alcohol in moderation, pre-arranging transport home, and ensuring a fully stocked first aid kit is at hand.
They also suggest looking out for vulnerable family, friends, and neighbours, and using the NHS 111 Wales website for healthcare advice if unsure about an illness or injury.
The trust also asks the public to treat emergency workers with respect.
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Ms Thompson added: "At a time where many people will be enjoying the long weekend, please consider those who are working hard to keep people safe and treat our ambulance workers with the respect they deserve.
"Our crews are doing their best to help you, so please do not make their jobs harder than they already are by subjecting them to any kind of abusive behaviour.
"Remember that 999 is for emergencies only, so if it's not an emergency but you need healthcare advice you can trust, the NHS 111 Wales website should be your first port of call for advice, information, and next steps."
The public is reminded that GP surgeries will be closed over the three-day weekend.
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