Oslo Emergency Services Prepare for Busy Quarter-Final Night, Urge Caution
Translated from Norwegian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Oslo's emergency services are preparing for an exceptionally busy night during the upcoming quarter-final match, anticipating a surge in injuries similar to New Year's Eve.
- Following Norway's victory over Brazil, 48 patients sought treatment at Oslo's emergency department, with some injuries attributed to "euphoria."
- While encouraging fans to celebrate, emergency services urge caution, advising people to "hold back the last 20 percent" and look out for one another.
Oslo's emergency services are bracing for what could be the busiest night of the year as the city prepares for a crucial quarter-final football match. Extra staff have been deployed in anticipation of a significant influx of patients seeking treatment for injuries, a situation comparable to New Year's Eve celebrations.
Last weekend, after Norway's victory against Brazil, Oslo's emergency department treated 48 patients. This number is on par with the busiest nights of the year, such as New Year's Eve and the night before Norway's Constitution Day. A spokesperson for Oslo University Hospital noted that some injuries were explicitly linked to "euphoria" experienced by celebrating fans.
While the exact number of football-related injuries is difficult to ascertain due to many patients being under the influence of alcohol, specific incidents were recorded. Two injuries were related to rowing, eleven to violence, and two to fireworks or pyrotechnics. The hospital is preparing for potentially higher numbers during the upcoming quarter-final match.
Let the jubilation flow, but hold back the last 20 percent. And most importantly: look out for each other.
Despite the expected crowds and the potential for heightened celebrations, Oslo's emergency services are encouraging the public to enjoy the game. However, they are also issuing a strong plea for caution. "Let the jubilation flow, but hold back the last 20 percent," advised a press spokesperson, emphasizing the importance of responsible celebration.
Public safety remains a key concern, and the emergency services are urging attendees to "look out for each other." This message underscores the need for collective responsibility during large public events, aiming to minimize preventable injuries and ensure a safe experience for everyone celebrating the match.
The night after the victory against Brazil was one of the record nights of the year.
Originally published by Aftenposten in Norwegian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.