Public warned to drink responsibly as ambulance workers prepare to strike

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As paramedics prepare to strike, citizens are being asked to drink responsibly, reconsider participating in contact sports and avoid running on icy roads.

The series of warnings comes as concerns grow ahead of strike actions planned for Wednesday when the NHS will be hit with major disruptions.

Ambulance workers, including paramedics, control room workers and technicians, leave for Wales and England as part of industrial action.

We will continue to answer the most life-threatening 999 calls, such as cardiac arrest.

The Welsh government claims that it cannot settle any disputes with the unions without help from Westminster.

‘Aggressive risk taking’

UK Health Minister Will Quince has warned people to stay safe and avoid ‘dangerous activities’.

He told BBC Breakfast:

Mr Quince did not initially mention what kind of dangerous activities might be involved, but later told BBC Radio 5 Live that he was jogging on icy roads, playing contact sports, Any “unnecessary” driving, he said, could be viewed as potentially unadvisable in the future. strike day.

“If there’s an activity that people do tomorrow, for example contact sports or whatever, they might want to review it,” he said.

He said running was not “very dangerous” but added: no, i won’t. because it involves additional risks. ”

common sense

When asked if he should drive the car, he said: But I’m not saying people shouldn’t drive, but of course be careful. ”

Downing Street declined to disclose that “dangerous” activities may be involved, with an official spokesman for the prime minister telling reporters:

Ministers and NHS leaders said people should still call 999 in an emergency, but are being asked to take extra steps to keep themselves and others safe.

Age UK’s Caroline Abrahams said it was important for older people to remember that emergency care remains available.

However, she added:

“But most older people who fall do so at home, so identifying and neutralizing trip hazards is equally important, not just in response to today’s strikes, but more generally.”