HUS hopes that people celebrate the New Year safely and manage independently in cases of accidents and illnesses

The number of EMS callouts is significantly higher on New Year's Eve than during a regular weekend. HUS prehospital emergency medical services, the local rescue departments, and private patient transport companies have prepared for the New Year’s celebrations together.

Based on previous experiences, about one fifth of the callouts made on New Year’s Eve could have been handled more appropriately by some other manner than calling the EMS. Instead of calling the EMS, basic care and good will often suffice when helping others–be it friend or stranger.

To secure help in cases of serious medical emergency or accidents, it is important to let the paramedics and other professionals concentrate on their work.

When setting off fireworks, follow the instructions from the sales representatives and rescue departments and wear safety goggles. Everyone watching the fireworks should wear goggles, including children.

If you choose to drink alcohol on New Year's Eve, we recommend drinking in moderation. Drugs and other similar intoxicants have no place in New Year’s Eve celebrations, or any other festivities.

We recommend wearing studded shoes to prevent falls on icy surfaces.

If you need urgent care

Patients in need of urgent care are primarily treated at a health center’s emergency services. If you need treatment on a weekday between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m., contact your local health center.

If your local health center is closed and your issue cannot wait until it is open again, please call the Medical Helpline at the number 116117. The call is taken by a nurse who will assess your treatment needs and urgency. If there is reason to go to an emergency department, the Medical Helpline will advise you where to go.

You can also seek urgent care by assessing your symptoms online in the Omaolo service. You will receive an assessment of the need and urgency of treatment, and, if necessary, instructions for seeking medical attention in public healthcare.

In an emergency, you can go directly to an emergency department. In case of an emergency or suspected emergency, call the emergency number 112.

In case of eye injuries, call the contact center for eye diseases tel. 09 471 73400.