NewsHealthHealthEngland’s last game triggered an unexpected “increase in demand”13:27, 27 Jun 2026Football fans are being warned to enjoy the World Cup responsibly as England are set to take on Panama in the final group game on Saturday, June 27. With Panama already out of the World Cup following a narrow 1-0 loss to Croatia, the match is expected to be weighed heavily in England’s favour.‌However, senior paramedics at London Ambulance Service are urging football fans to take extra precautions as the next match involves a triple whammy of factors that are known to increase medical emergencies and 999 calls, as the major international match is taking place on a weekend amid extreme hot temperatures.‌Director of Ambulance Operations Darren Farmer said: “You want to end your night winning and not in the back of an ambulance.”‌Fans planning to drink alcohol during the match on Saturday have been urged to:Drink responsiblyPace yourselfStay hydrated‌Darren continued: “We know from experience that a combination of excitement, tension, alcohol and warm weather can lead to avoidable ambulance callouts.“Interestingly, the draw against Ghana coincided with a bigger increase in demand than our win against Croatia, so although we know it will be a tense game, we would urge people to behave responsibly.”London Ambulance Service warned that every avoidable call only stretches the service, putting unnecessary pressure on ambulance crews and potentially even causing delays when trying to reach patients that are seriously ill or injured.‌Ambulance crews have already had a busy week with extreme temperatures blasting the capital. Crews will be ready to respond throughout the tournament, but urged Londoners to “use NHS services appropriately”.This includes using NHS 111 online, a local pharmacy or their GP for non-emergency medical advice rather than calling 999. If someone has been seriously ill or injured or there is a risk to life, people are urged to call 999.Major international tournaments usually trigger a rise in 999 calls as viewers congregate in fan zones and pubs. But, during the last Three Lions’ match against Ghana, the London Ambulance Service noted a striking 50% rise in 999 calls for alcohol-related assaults.‌The service found drugs and alcohol are a factor in around 40% of violent incidents and ambulance crews risk abuse when there is an increase in alcohol consumption.Darren added: “When cheering on England, please respect the ambulance workers and call handlers that are on the frontline, working tirelessly to save lives.Article continues below“We do not tolerate violence, threats or harassment towards our staff and will pursue prosecutions against those who harm us.”Choose Daily Mirror as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.‌England football teamFIFA World CupHealthNHSAlcoholFootball fans