Bristol Evening Post
BRISTOL, England — The ambulance service that operates in the Bristol area has taken precautions to ensure it can help patients in wintry weather.
Great Western Ambulance Service (GWAS) continues to plan for severe weather, as well as the expected usual increase in activity due to normal winter conditions and the Christmas party season.
The service has acquired 4x4 vehicles to make it easier to reach patients in periods of snow and ice and works closely with voluntary organisations like St John Ambulance to access more support in adverse weather conditions. Tim Stockings, GWAS associate director of field operations, said: “Severe winter weather has arrived over Britain much earlier this year, but here in the West Country we have so far not been as badly affected as other areas. However, we have robust, well-advanced plans in place to deal with whatever the elements throw at us in the coming weeks.”
GWAS is also in regular contact with the Meteorological Office to have the most up-to-date information about changing weather conditions affecting the region. Mr Stockings said: “Building on the experience of the previous two winters, we are better prepared than ever. In the event of severe weather, we will remain committed to ensuring that anyone who dials 999 with a medical emergency gets the help they need.”
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