North East Ambulance Service launches winter safety campaign with road and weather advice
The North East Ambulance Service has launched a winter safety campaign with advice on severe weather, road safety, flu and respiratory health.
North East Ambulance Service has launched a winter safety campaign with advice on severe weather, road safety, flu and respiratory health.
The winter campaign will focus on staying safe on winter roads and preparing for severe weather, including ice, snow and dark nights in addition to protecting against flu and other winter illnesses.
It will also support people living with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions.
NEAS attended over 1,000 road traffic incidents between October 2025 and January 2026, with darker nights and severe weather bringing additional risks on the roads.
Nationally, flu vaccination was estimated to have prevented around 104,000 hospital admissions in England, while cold weather and seasonal illnesses can have a greater impact on people living with respiratory conditions. Together, these patients account for around 12% of NEAS 999 calls.
Head of operations, Claire Jobling, said: "Winter can bring additional risks for all of us, from difficult journeys and icy paths to flu and worsening breathing conditions.
"While many of these risks are common, there are simple things we can all do to protect ourselves, our families and our communities.
"The campaign will begin with a focus on road and weather safety before moving into flu vaccination, winter illness prevention and respiratory health. We will also be encouraging people to look after vulnerable loved ones, prevent avoidable injuries and access the right NHS service when they need support.
“Many winter incidents can be prevented”
"Our teams are always here for people facing life-threatening emergencies, but many winter incidents can be prevented through a few simple actions.
"Checking your vehicle, getting vaccinated if you are eligible, keeping medicines and inhalers to hand and checking in on someone who may need support could make a real difference.
"We want everyone to enjoy the winter months safely, so our message is simple: stay well, stay safe and be winter ready."
More winter safety information is available at https://www.neas.nhs.uk/community-learning/winter-safety-advice