The Welsh Ambulance Service has urged the public to safeguard its resources during the upcoming Bank Holiday weekend.

The Trust has provided reminders about alternatives to dialling 999 to ensure that vital services are available for those who require them the most.

The public are advised to collect repeat prescriptions before the start of the three-day weekend and ensure that household first aid kits are thoroughly stocked to deal with minor ailments at home.

The Trust has recommended people use the NHS 111 Wales website to check symptoms or call 111 if they remain uncertain about their condition.

Alongside this, the public can visit their local pharmacy, where qualified healthcare professionals can offer clinical advice and give out over-the-counter medications for a range of usual illnesses.

For injuries that are not life-threatening, a visit to a Minor Injury Unit is recommended.

The Trust also encourages members of the public to check on elderly or vulnerable family members, friends, or neighbours, and to ensure their medicine cabinets are well-stocked with useful and in-date medication.

Sonia Thompson, the Trust’s assistant director of Operations (Emergency Medical Service), said: "As ever, we’re expecting the Bank Holiday period to be a busy one for us and that’s why we’re asking for everyone’s help to ensure we’re there for those who are the most seriously ill or injured over the Bank Holiday.

"If you call us for something which is not an emergency, you could be taking away valuable time and resources from someone who is in a genuine, life-threatening emergency.

"People should also understand that just because you call an ambulance or are taken to hospital by ambulance, does not mean that you will be treated any quicker once you arrive at the emergency department.

“So, please help us to help you and consider the range of other services available to you."

The Trust also reminded road users to exercise caution on the roads during the busy Bank Holiday period.

Dermot O’Leary, acting locality manager for Conwy and Denbighshire and the Trust’s road safety champion, said: "The roads are even busier over the Bank Holiday, and this is where you have a role to play as a driver."

Mr O’Leary's top tips for the bank holiday are: Always wear a seatbelt. Allow plenty of distance between you and the car in front. Keep an eye out for traffic speed and flow. Mobile phones off and kept somewhere secure. No drink or drugs. If you have people distracting you in the car, ask them to be quiet. In the event of a breakdown, have the necessary equipment to keep you safe at the side of the road, a hi-vis or yellow jacket and move up the bank/away and behind the vehicle to call and wait for assistance.

Mr O’Leary added: "If you’re behind the wheel remember, there should be zero alcohol in your system - drinking and driving don’t mix.

“Alcohol slows down your reactions and impairs your judgement.

“If you do plan on enjoying a family get together, plan ahead and arrange a designated driver or taxi to get you home.

“Don’t make us pick up the pieces, have a safe drive."

“It’s important that our emergency ambulances are protected for those that need us most and 999 is kept for the most serious and life-threatening emergencies only.