Plea over 999 demand ahead of Bonfire Night
BBCPeople are being urged to only call 999 for serious or life-threatening incidents as emergency services prepare for a busy spell around Thursday's Bonfire Night.
South Western Ambulance Service (SWASFT) said it responded to more than 7,000 incidents over the Halloween weekend, which was 10% higher than expected.
The service said it had a mix of calls relating to seasonal illnesses, colder weather and ongoing delays in transferring patients from ambulances into hospital care.
Wayne Darch, director of operations at SWASFT said: "It is vital that emergency ambulance resources are prioritised for patients whose lives may be at risk."
Hollie Adams/ReutersThe ambulance service said it was a readying itself for high demand with people planning to attend official and informal firework displays.
It said people should call 999 where someone is unconscious, not breathing normally, seriously injured or experiencing severe bleeding.
It asked them to only call back if a patient's condition deteriorated or an ambulance was no longer required.
The service urged people not to call for updates on ambulance arrival times.
Darch said they "need the support of our communities to help ensure our crews can reach those who need us most".
Meanwhile, the ambulance service is reminding people to take extra care to avoid accidents or injuries by standing well back from lit fireworks and bonfires.
Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service has advised people, rather than using fireworks at home, to attend an organised display "to enjoy the excitement of Bonfire Night while reducing the risks for you, your family, and your community".