East Midlands Ambulance Service has revealed 10 of the most ridiculous requests that have been made to their busy phone lines.
On average, the operators at the health service receive 2,500 999 calls every day from people experiencing a medical emergency.
However, it seems not everyone views 999 for urgent issues – as demonstrated by a list compiled by the service within the last six months.
One person rang to report that milk had been poured over their body as part of an art installation, while another informed the services about a dead fox.
Others included someone crying about their drinking glass being stolen, a hungry person requesting some breakfast, and someone who didn’t want to wait 30 minutes for an appointment at a GP surgery.
A big toenail coming off and a broken egg were also included in the list.
(Image: Getty)
The full list from EMAS:
1.Person pouring milk over their body – as part of an art installation
2.Wants sleeping tablets
3.Toothache
4.Dead fox
5.At GP surgery, doesn’t want to wait 30 mins for appointment
6.Someone had stolen their drinking glass
7.Wants bandage changing
8.Wants someone to make them breakfast
9.Wants a taxi
10.Big toenail has come off
(Image: Getty)
East Midlands Ambulance Service insist that it is no laughing matter, and as their busy operators are already inundated with 2,500 999 calls every day, it is time they say they simply can’t afford to waste.
Simon Tomlinson, general manager for emergency operations centres, says people should only dial 999 in the event of a serious emergency to avoid delays.
He also urged people to remember that there are other options available, such as calling NHS 111, contact their GP or a pharmacist or visit an NHS Walk in Centre.
He said: “When you call 999 because someone is unconscious, not breathing, having chest pains or has the symptoms of a stroke, you are making the right call.
“Our emergency call handlers are trained to deliver life-saving instructions over the phone and we will get help to you as quickly as possible.
“Every 999 call is assessed so that the right help is provided to the right people as quickly as possible.
“You could receive the right treatment for you more quickly by contacting an alternative NHS service, such as your local pharmacy or NHS111, particularly if your call is not a serious emergency.
“Please help us to make sure we can reach the people who need us the most.”
