North East Ambulance Service (NEAS) has launched a winter safety campaign 
to drive communities across the North East to be winter ready.
Featuring practical advice from frontline ambulance colleagues, the campaign will focus on some of the region’s biggest seasonal risks, including severe weather, road safety, flu and respiratory health.
The prevention-led campaign will feature real frontline voices, practical videos, public advice and weather-responsive messages that can be shared quickly when conditions change.
- Staying safe on winter roads and preparing for severe weather, including ice, snow and dark nights.
- Protecting against flu and other winter illnesses.
- Supporting people living with asthma, COPD and other respiratory conditions.
As winter approaches, darker nights, severe weather and seasonal illnesses can all have an impact on our health and safety. Last winter, 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.
"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."
Throughout the campaign, NEAS will work alongside NHS partners, local authorities and emergency services to share consistent advice and reach as many people as possible.
The public will also be reminded that 999 should be used for life-threatening emergencies. NHS 111 online, community pharmacies, GP practices and urgent treatment centres can help with many other urgent health concerns.
Everyone can take simple steps now:
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Check whether you are eligible for a flu vaccination
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Make sure repeat prescriptions are ordered in good time
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Keep essential medicines and inhalers accessible
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Check tyres, lights, oil, coolant and screen wash before travelling
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Allow extra time for journeys during poor weather
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Wear bright or reflective clothing when walking or cycling in the dark
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Check on relatives, friends or neighbours who may need additional support
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Use the right NHS service for your needs
More winter safety information is available at https://