People have been urged not to drink excessively over the Christmas period and become a burden on ambulance crews.
Health Minister Shona Robison issued the warning as paramedics and technicians brace themselves for an increase in 999 incidents.
Last year in the 20 days between December 13 and January 1, the Scottish Ambulance Service (SAS) dealt with almost 32,000 emergency incidents, an increase of around 4,000 or an extra 200 calls a day compared to normal demand.
As Christmas and Hogmanay parties get into full swing, ambulance cover will be increased by up to 20% at peak periods to deal with the surge in emergency calls.
As well as fuelling more emergency calls, alcohol is behind most of the assaults and abusive behaviour that ambulance teams have to endure.
The safety of ambulance staff is paramount and any assault or threatening behaviour will be reported to the police.
Ms Robison, said: “Our ambulance crews work incredibly hard to provide the best patient care 365 days a year, and this work does not stop at Christmas.
“We all have a duty to ensure we are using our public services responsibly and keeping them free for those who really need them.
“So, while I hope everyone across Scotland thoroughly enjoys the Christmas and New Year festivities, I’d ask people to take on board the advice of the Scottish Ambulance Service and ensure they drink responsibly, keep safe and do not cause any unnecessary burden for our ambulance crews.”
Pauline Howie, chief executive of the Scottish Ambulance Service, said the festive period was the busiest and most challenging time of year for staff.
“As they enjoy festive parties, we would ask people to drink sensibly and wrap up well for the weather,” she added
“This will help us to ensure that ambulances are dispatched to those people who are in most need of our help.”