Paramedics are warning the public not to misuse 999 calls as the August Bank Holiday approaches.
In one case a woman dialled the emergency number and asked for help tidying her kitchen.
“It’s vital our services are kept free for the most urgent calls in order for us to prioritise patients with life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, cardiac arrests, strokes and breathing problems,” said Emergency Medical Dispatcher Tony Newsham.
Other inappropriate calls include woman who called because she had a cotton bud stuck in her ear, and a man who asked for an ambulance because his toe nail had changed colour.
On the last bank holiday in May, 999 calls to the North West Ambulance Service spiked by 6%.
“We tend to see an increase in contacts from people who don’t know where to seek alternative medical care when their GP practice is closed, with conditions such as sore throats and aches and pains,” said Newsham
“People often think calling 999 will help them get seen quicker – but that isn’t the case.
“A well-stocked medicine cabinet, a visit to a pharmacist or a call to NHS 111 are often much better options for patients.”
