With the first England match taking place today, the region’s ambulance service is urging football fans to drink responsibly and stay safe during the 2012 European Football Championships.

The enjoyment of alcoholic drinks is expected to play a big part in social get-togethers during the tournament, with many people watching at home or in one of the district’s pubs and bars.

But the Yorkshire Air Ambulance Service NHS Trust is warning that alcohol is one of the leading causes of accidents in the UK.

The service is urging people to be mindful of the dangers of drinking too much and to take extra care of themselves and others.

The service also warns that associated risks of heavy drinking can lead to a rise in assaults, including those against ambulance staff, and incidents of domestic violence.

Dr Dave Macklin, associate medical director at Yorkshire Ambulance Service, said: “We’re not saying people shouldn’t enjoy themselves, but unfortunately ambulance clinicians have to pick up the pieces and our valuable resources are often caught up responding to these calls which could have been avoided.”

For advice and treatment for non-emergencies, people should consider options such as a visit to a local pharmacist or GP surgery, a call to NHS Direct on 0845 46 47 or visit to a walk-in centre.