Stock image.
Camera IconStock image. Credit: Supplied/Supplied

WA Police, doctors urge New Year’s Eve party goers to stay safe

AAPWestern Suburbs Weekly

NEW Year’s Eve revellers will have plenty of events to choose from in Perth, but WA Police and doctors are warning party goers to stay safe while enjoying the festivities.

Australian Medical Association WA president Omar Khorshid said emergency departments in Perth would be swamped with alcohol and drug-affected people, placing a strain on public hospitals.

“Every year we have a surge in presentations on New Year’s Eve, largely due to alcohol, drugs and anti-social behaviour,” he said.

PerthNow Digital Edition.
Your local paper, whenever you want it.

Get in front of tomorrow's news for FREE

Journalism for the curious Australian across politics, business, culture and opinion.

READ NOW

“Last year, paramedics attended more than 1000 cases between midnight on December 30 and noon on New Year’s Day, and that was just in the metropolitan region.

“More than 80 of those cases were due to alcohol or drug-related call outs.”

Dr Khorshid said New Year’s Eve was a time of celebration and he urged people to avoid turning it into a tragedy.

“Look after each other. If you see someone that is over-intoxicated and in need of help, do the right thing and offer assistance or notify the relevant authorities,” he said.

WA Police are also encouraging everyone enjoying New Year’s Eve celebrations to be responsible and considerate of others.

“There will be a large police presence on the streets and across entertainment precincts,” a police spokesman said.

“Police will swiftly deal with any unacceptable behaviour.”

Among the festivities will be family-friendly events in the afternoon, themed parties at many entertainment venues and fireworks at midnight.

The annual Perth Cup will also be held at Ascot Racecourse on New Year’s Day.