THE ambulance service which covers north Essex is urging people to plan ahead and stay safe this bank holiday weekend.

The East of England Ambulance Service Trust has asked people to follow simple steps to try to avoid trips to hospital as they prepare for the long weekend.

These include stocking up on repeat medications, carrying allergy medication and preparing for cold and warm weather.

Marcus Bailey, Consultant Paramedic for the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust (EEAST), said: “Bank holidays mean people are out and about or enjoying the outdoors more than they might normally be, increasing the risk of accidents, injury or illness.

"Before you go out, make sure you are prepared by wearing the right clothing, use sun cream if it is warm and carry the appropriate medication if you have an allergy."

Last year, the trust received 3,439 calls in Essex during the May bank holiday weekend.

Mr Bailey added: “If you’re unwell, get checked out in advance.

"Plan ahead if you need to take medication so that you’re not left short and think about how you will get care for yourself or someone else if you need to use an NHS service.

“We want to provide the best care possible and to be there as quickly as possible for those in a life-threatening emergency such as a stroke, heart attack, or for those with breathing difficulties.

"Using alternative NHS services such as calling 111, checking the NHS Choices website for information on minor conditions and local health services or visiting an out of hours pharmacy will go really far in helping us.”