THE AMBULANCE service has urged residents to stay safe over the August bank holiday weekend.

Many residents will be preparing to enjoy a long weekend but the North West Ambulance Service has urged them to do so safely, with a surge in 999 incidents expected.

The trust has also reminded the public to only call the emergency services in life-threatening situations in order to keep resources free.

During the last August bank holiday weekend, the North West Ambulance Service received calls from someone whose contact lens hurt, a person with a blister and a member of the public who couldn’t walk because they had a bent toe.

Another person dialled 999 because they had trapped their finger in a door.

Ged Blezard, interim director of operations at the North West Ambulance Service, said: “So far this year the trust has seen a growing rise in calls for every bank holiday weekend as there was an increase of 11 per cent in calls for the spring bank holiday at the end of May compared to the previous May Day holiday weekend at the start of the month.

“Quite rightly bank holiday are a time of celebration and great fun as people unwind and enjoy their time away from work.

“Although we want everyone to enjoy themselves we urge them to do so responsibly.

“If drinking, make sure you also have regular soft drinks and also keep a look out for one another – never leave a vulnerable friend alone.

“Also when out and about check the weather forecast and plan your activities accordingly.

“If it’s not an emergency don’t call 999 – please think of how you can help yourself and others or even better avoid the injury or illness in the first place.”