Pay-day boozers on the increase

Ambulance chiefs say workers spending their wages on booze on pay day are behind a surge in alcohol-related incidents.

They are urging people to drink safely and responsibly after witnessing a trend of rising call outs to help drunks on the last weekend of the month.

Statistics compiled by the North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust (NWAS) over the past two months have revealed the increase.

On Monday 23 February there were 47 alcohol-related incidents which increased to 99 on the Saturday. But these are only the incidents where booze is flagged up, so the actual number of alcohol-related incidents is likely to be higher.

The NWAS said the increase could be linked to pay day for many workers, coupled with reductions and cheap deals on alcohol.

Chief Executive John Burnside said: “We have recently seen an increase in the number of drink-related calls and the people of the North West are urged to take a sensible and moderate approach in order to reduce the risk of becoming another ‘statistic’.

“Many alcohol-related incidents can be avoided and frequently put an unnecessary strain on our crews. For this reason we ask that people take care of themselves and each other on a night out.”

Dr Ruth Hussey, regional director of public health for NHS North West, said: “To keep yourself safe, it’s important to know your limits when you are out drinking.

“Men should drink no more than three to four units and women no more than two to three units. Sticking to your limits means you are less likely to have an alcohol-related accident or injury.”