With 999 calls being on the rise, Paramedics at London Ambulance Service are calling on revellers to celebrate safely this weekend as the Service prepare for Halloween and Bonfire Night in the capital city.
This season is always highpoint for emergency services, with October being on course to be the busiest month of 2025 so far. There have been up to 6,500 calls received by London Ambulance Service control rooms each day over recent weekends, and additional crews will be placed here and on the road this weekend in anticipation of a busy few days ahead.
More the 400,999 calls an hour are forecasted at peak times as the month come into a close and November begins.
It is important that the 999 service is only used for serious medical emergencies, which is why the Service are asking Londoners to help them, and use the NHS wisely at this critical time.
Strategic Commander and Director of Resilience and Specialist Assets at London Ambulance Service, Natasha Wills, has said: “This weekend marks Halloween and the start of Bonfire Night celebrations across the capital. Many of you will be out trick-or-treating or attending local events, so we’re reminding everyone to stay safe and look out for one another.
“Halloween fun – and noise from fireworks – can sometimes cause a fright – especially for young children, older adults, or people with certain health conditions. Please be considerate and remember that not everyone enjoys a scare.
“If you’re out in London and plan to drink alcohol this weekend, please eat before you drink, pace yourself and plan your journey home.
“With firework displays happening across London, make sure to follow the safety guidance provided by event organisers. If you’re using fireworks at home, take extra care to follow London Fire Brigade safety advice to prevent accidents.
“Remember only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency. For non-life threatening emergencies call NHS 111 or online.”
If you need urgent medical help when it’s not an emergency, NHS111 online should be your first port of call if you are unsure what to do. You will get the support you need when using the 111 service if your medical concern is urgent but you do not need an emergency ambulance.
Through following this advice, you will also help ensure that the the Ambulance Service are able to speak to and treat the most seriously ill and injured patients as quickly as possible.
GPs and pharmacists can also help and give you advice on medicines or common problems like colds, coughs and rashes.
