Great Western Ambulance Service (GWAS) is making a plea not to let paramedics gatecrash your party.

Ambulance crews are facing what is traditionally one of their busiest weekends of the year as the Christmas party season reaches its peak.

Freezing temperatures forecast are likely to add to the expected spike in 999 calls, prompting GWAS to urge revellers to be sensible and plan for their night out.

Helen Stevens, GWAS clinical lead, said: "We want people to enjoy their Christmas party, but a combination of alcohol and sub-zero night-time temperatures that are forecast all too often leave them needing our help. Excess alcohol and hypothermia on their own can cause problems – together they can be extremely dangerous.

"That danger can be avoided by taking some basic sensible precautions. Therefore, we have produced a list of top 10 tips for enjoying a night out without ending the evening in the back of an ambulance. Not only is that better for them, it means our vital clinical skills and resources are available for those with life-threatening conditions who really need us."

999 calls to the ambulance service are not categorised by whether or not the patient has consumed alcohol or is drunk, but by the clinical condition, like falls, assault, unconsciousness, overdose, chest pain, breathing problems. However, excessive alcohol consumption is often a factor in these, particularly on Friday and Saturday nights.

Helen said: "Clearly we have a duty of care to anyone who requests our help and we will always do our best for them. But if people were more responsible in their drinking, there is far less chance of their night out being spoiled by ambulance crews gatecrashing the party."

With the party season upon us, it is worth remembering drinking in the cold weather comes with increased risks. As well as numbing the senses, alcohol also thins the blood so it may be more difficult to gauge a drop in body temperature. Symptoms of moderate hypothermia can mimic excess alcohol intake.

You may appear intoxicated with poor co-ordination, trouble keeping your balance and slurred speech. You may no longer be able to make responsible decisions and will experience feelings of apathy and confusion. Your breathing may become shallow and you will experience an overwhelming urge to sleep.

GWAS have produced a 10-point plan, divided into three sections, to help people who are planning to drink when they go out this Christmas.

Before you go:

Have something to eat – drinking on an empty stomach can make you more intoxicated.

Plan your journey home – pre book taxis or ask family/friends who are not drinking.

Hydrate yourself with water – start the evening with the best intentions.

While you are out:

Do not mix alcoholic drinks – this will make you more intoxicated faster.

Alternate alcoholic drinks with soft drinks to reduce the effects of dehydration.

Do not leave your drink unattended in case it is tampered with.

Do not feel pressured into joining rounds to keep up with faster drinkers – stick to your own pace.

Wrap up warm if you are out and about – most venues have cloakrooms for hanging coats.

Ensure you and your party can all get home safely.

When you get home:

Drink some water before going to bed – it will help re-hydrate you.