An ambulance trust is urging residents to be prepared and take care this August bank holiday.

Officials from the East of England Ambulance Service NHS Trust issued the warning this morning (August 28) in a bid to reduce the number of casualties this year.

The Trust, who received 10,406 emergency calls during the 2014 August bank holiday, are advising residents to wear sun cream, only go swimming in open water that is supervised by lifeguards  and be prepared for weather changes.

Consultant Paramedic Marcus Bailey said: “We are prepared for the bank holiday weekend, but would urge people to take steps to avoid a call to the ambulance service.

“When people are out and about this weekend, remember to keep hydrated and cover up if you are out in the sun and ensure your first aid kit is up to date with over-the-counter pain killers, after-sun, plasters, and antihistamines.

“We would also like to remind people about alternatives to 999 if they have minor ailments by calling the non-emergency 111 helpline, visiting an out-of-hours GP, walk-in centre or pharmacy.”