In Wales there are still many properties that don’t have door numbers or names, which could mean that precious time is wasted by blue light services searching for the property in an emergency.
Head of Operations Richard Lee said: “We need to get to 999 calls as quickly as possible. Sometimes if a house does not have its name or number clearly displayed there is a delay in us reaching the patient.
“It's vital that all properties display their name or number clearly and that it is visible from the road.
“Our control rooms have digital mapping systems to find addresses but in a life threatening emergency it's a good idea to send somebody outside to flag the ambulance or response car down. In these cases sometimes seconds save lives.”
The Trust is also encouraging anyone visiting Wales on holiday this summer to take steps to make sure they are prepared in the event of an emergency.
That means making sure you know the full address you’re staying at and checking what medical facilities are in the local area.
Richard added: “The NHS Direct Wales website has a useful search facility to help you find the nearest Pharmacy, Minor Injury Unit or Emergency Department.
“Also, if you are taking any medication, it’s important to make sure you have enough to last you the whole holiday.
“Please remember only to use 999 in the case of a genuine life-threatening emergency.”
What can you do? Follow these simple steps:
* Ensure that your house number or name is visible from the road.
* Ideally, house numbers should be the same size as the figures on a number plate.
* Help the numbers stand out – choose white numbers and place on a black background or vice versa.
* Encourage your neighbour(s) and local shopkeepers to follow suit.
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