The North East Ambulance Service is urging people to ask themselves "do I really need an ambulance?" this New Year to avoid adding pressure on the NHS.
The service is reminding residents of the North East to only call 999 or visit A&E if their condition threatens life or limb, as the NHS continues to face high demand over the New Year weekend.
After the Christmas period, the New Year is traditionally one of the busiest weekends for emergency services, and they are asking for the public's support to ensure resources are available for those who need them most.
Stu Holliday, head of Emergency, Preparedness, Resilience, and Response at North East Ambulance Service, said: "The winter period is extremely busy and demand for emergency services increases.
"We want everyone to enjoy ringing in the New Year but we also urge the public to please think before picking up the phone to 999 or 111 and think about other services first including 111 online, pharmacies, and GP when they are open.
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"We would always advise someone who thinks their condition is life-threatening to call us but please think before you pick up the phone - do you really need an ambulance or is there another way of you getting help?"
He added: "Please ensure your medicine cabinet is stocked up with any regular medication you require as well as essentials like a first aid kit, thermometer, paracetamol, ibuprofen, antihistamines, and plasters.
"Finally, if you're out celebrating, remember your keys, phone, and have plans to get home.
"Please have a good time but look out for each other and don't ruin your New Year celebrations by ending up in the back of an ambulance."
The NHS is also seeing a high demand for common illnesses such as norovirus, flu, and other respiratory viral infections during this time of year.
NHS has also urged everyone to get vaccinations, maintain good hand hygiene, keep warm, and stock up on medicines and repeat prescriptions before bank holidays.
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