Ambulance crews kept busy as heavy snow falls (From Dudley News)

Ambulance crews kept busy as heavy snow falls

3:26pm Friday 18th January 2013 in News

AMBULANCE crews have been kept busy since the snowfall and icy conditions arrived this morning.

Compared to a normal Friday, the Trust saw a 19 per cent increase in incidents from midnight until 1pm today (Friday).

Craig Cooke, WMAS assistant chief ambulance officer, said: "Initial reports suggest the heavy snowfall has increased 999 demands across the West Midlands.

“The number of patients suffering slips, trips and falls increased. However, I am pleased to say that our crews have coped extremely well with the elements and continue to get to patients as quickly as possible.

“I am also thankful to the public who adhered to the weather warnings and the public safety advice.”

With the weather conditions promising to remain difficult over the weekend, members of the public are being advised to take extra care and only travel if essential.

People across the borough are also urged to make sure they ‘choose well’ when they access the NHS during the busy cold snap. Ambulance bosses are reminding people only to call 999 for life-threatening conditions and emergencies such as chest pain, stroke, serious blood loss or a state of unconsciousness.

Agencies such as NHS Direct are available to offer advice and help on less urgent cases.