Football fans urged to be ‘team players’ while enjoying World Cup

Ambulance chiefs are encouraging London’s football fans to drink sensibly and look after each other to avoid ending their viewing of World Cup matches in the back of an ambulance.

The tournament kicked off on 14 June and England face Tunisia on 18 June in the first of the team’s games in Russia.

London Ambulance Service Medical Director, Dr Fenella Wrigley, said: “Our message is simple – we want everyone to enjoy the World Cup but to be a team player by looking after their friends.

“We’re asking people to drink responsibly, keep an eye on each other and make sure they get home safely, rather than ending their night in the back of an ambulance.”

Demand is typically high for the ambulance service during the summer months of each year and this can be further heightened during major sporting events like the World Cup.

Dr Wrigley added: “While we’re treating patients who have had too much to drink, other people who are potentially seriously ill or injured could be waiting for help.

“Drinking too much puts people in a vulnerable situation. If you cannot look after yourself you risk injury by falling or being less aware of traffic and other hazards.”

 

Top tips for a safe night out

• Eat before drinking: Make sure you eat before you go out or start your night somewhere that serves meals or snacks. It’ll provide more energy, and lessen your hangover the next day.
• Try pacing and spacing: Having a soft drink or some water between alcoholic drinks slows the rate of your drinking.
• Drink smaller drinks: A large glass of wine in most bars is equivalent to a third of a bottle!
• Keep a check on how much you’re drinking: The NHS ‘One You’ Drinks Tracker will help you keep track of how much you are drinking and spending.
• Look after each other: Look after your friends and colleagues to make sure everyone gets home safely at the end of the night.
• Plan your journey home: Don’t leave it to chance—think about how you’re going to get home, and who with, before you go out. Make arrangements before you start drinking, and make sure you don’t get left to walk home alone.