St John crews put to the test

The winter months are traditionally busy for ambulance crews but this winter is proving a real challenge, with freezing conditions this month expected to test the service.

St John crews went to 44,200 callouts in June, an 8 per cent jump in callouts nationally compared to the same month last year.

St John Marlborough territory manager Murray Neal says his crews went to 450 callouts last month, up from 390 last June.

‘‘Please dress warmly, drive to the conditions, make welfare checks on elderly neighbours and make sure your regular prescriptions are filled.’’

But the flu season has not quite hit yet, and figures for July and August are likely to be even higher, Murray says.

‘‘Winter is a busy time for us, and callouts tend to be in populated areas such as Blenheim and Picton where people are inside and unwell,’’ he says.

‘‘Our key messages are to encourage people to use their GP and the primary health services available, to help manage callouts and hospital admissions. And get a flu shot.’’

St John clinical operations director Norma Lane says control centres are monitoring callout rates across the country, and directing extra resources to areas with the greatest need.

She urges people to help reduce the number of callouts by taking care of themselves and others, and making sure they are prepared for the cold season.

‘‘Please dress warmly, drive to the conditions, make welfare checks on elderly neighbours and make sure your regular prescriptions are filled.’’

Murray adds that people with limited mobility should make sure they wear good-fitting footwear and socks to reduce the likelihood of slips and falls, inside and outside.