Ambulance service calls for falls on ice double

The North West Ambulance Service NHS Trust has been kept busy this morning with double the number of calls relating to slips, trips and falls on icy pavements and roads.

The early morning frost has resulted in many people reporting incidents such as suspected broken bones, twisted ankles and head injuries.

In Rochdale calls were received for a male who had fallen on ice and a female with a shoulder injury.

In Oldham there was a male with a broken arm and a female with a head injury and in Bolton two females had head injuries after slipping on ice.

Ged Blezard, Greater Manchester Head of Service said: “We are exceptionally busy this morning and patients who are not suffering from a life-threatening or serious condition may find themselves having to wait longer than usual for an ambulance response.

“We would urge people to keep the 999 number for emergencies only and to consider alternative pathways of care such as a walk in or minor injuries centre.

“During these cold and icy conditions, please wrap up warm and perhaps more importantly, wear appropriate footwear.”