Ambulance Wise Up For Winter campaign gets people prepared for the season ahead

Keeping well is the focus of a new campaign to help the public be #winterwise in the coming months.

The East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST) today launched ‘Wise Up For Winter’ covering themes such as the most common reasons people call in winter, and how they can keep safe and well.

The advice aims to help people be prepared, care for themselves and others, save lives, and spread the word about using NHS services in the best way possible.

Throughout the winter months the campaign will offer advice on road safety, colds and flu, what to keep at home for treating minor illnesses, and when you should be calling 111, visiting your GP or pharmacist.

Sandy Brown, Director of Nursing and Clinical Quality for EEAST, said: “It’s the season of colder temperatures, nasty weather, and illnesses like flu, and we want the public to tackle winter head on.

“In particular, the over 65s, carers, children, and those with long-term conditions are more vulnerable to the cold and damp weather, and of course ice, snow and high winds can all cause more risk.

“Last winter, we responded to 273,525 patients, hundreds of whom may be equally or even more vulnerable this year to the same kinds of conditions. We urge people to reduce the chances that they will need to call us and above all choose the right service for their needs – be that 111, your GP, a minor injuries unit or pharmacist.

“Hopefully our advice through our Wise Up For Winter campaign will help people stay safe and well.”

People can access advice online, search East of England Ambulance Service on facebook, and follow @EastEnglandAmb on Twitter using #winterwise.