NHS ambulance strikes: don’t get drunk and avoid ‘risky activity’, people told

Military personnel take part in a training session as they prepare to provide cover for striking ambulance workers. Photograph: Victoria Jones/PA

Members of the public have been urged to avoid getting drunk or taking part in “risky activities” on Wednesday because strike-hit NHS ambulance services may not be able to treat them.

Thousands of paramedics and other personnel in NHS ambulance services across England and Wales will strike for between 12 and 24 hours on Wednesday, leaving the NHS unable to respond to many of the 999 calls it usually receives.