Four day weekend and it is sunny

As I start to write this weeks blog it is Good Friday, I have some family time before starting the first of three nights over the weekend. Like many other shift workers in the emergency services, medical profession and many other occupations, night, weekend and bank holiday working is accepted as a normal occurrence. This is in addition to the many volunteers who give up their time to support their local communities and worthwhile causes.

However for many people this is a long weekend with both the Friday and Monday off. Many will be dragging out the barbecue, others starting DIY projects or just off doing whatever activity they enjoy to relax. The sun is out, so what could go wrong? Just a few easy to remember tips :

Don't light barbecues with petrol.
Be careful if using steps or ladders for DIY.
Take care on the roads and look out for each other.
Only bathe at beaches with lifeguards.
Stay away from cliff edges if visiting the coast.
Don't drink and drive.
Don't text and drive.

Just a few simple tips to help keep you safe and hopefully avoid you meeting me or my colleagues. This list is by no means exhaustive and could run to several pages just ask any of the emergency services.

The weather forecast looks to be reasonable for the next few days so this means the local area will be busy with both residents and visitors. This always adds to our call volume, so please only call 999 in a genuine emergency.





Why 999?

The 999 number was introduced in 1937 so is 80 years old this year. The number was chosen as the 9 digit was easiest to locate in the dark on a rotary dial telephone and also to avoid miscalls if other numbers were used.

What ever you are up to over the next few days enjoy and stay safe.