Video links to 999 calls

Video footage is being used to help 999 call handlers decide whether to send paramedics at two ambulance services in England. People calling emergency services are asked to use their mobile phone cameras to stream live footage via a link texted to them. Ambulance chiefs say it will help staff decide whether the case is an emergency or a minor issue that can wait. It is hoped it will help overstretched ambulance services to reduce delays reaching emergency patients. Evidence from paramedics suggests up to two thirds of the calls they attend are not emergencies.