"Only call in 999 in emergencies": Ambulance Service's plea amid heat
The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust says it's expecting high demand this weekend
The South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) says it's expecting demand to rise this weekend amid the regions latest heat wave.
An amber heat-health alert is in place until at least the end of the weekend and ambulance crews are bracing themselves for a busy time.
It follows a record-breaking period in June, where a red health alert was issued, and over 5,200 999 calls were made to SWASFT in a single day on 25th June. The day saw more than 4,300 incidents managed, which is also a record for the Trust.
While crews are ready to help people in need, the Trust is calling for us to make responsible decisions to ease the strain and make sure that those in the greatest need are cared for.
Pete Brown, SWASFT's Director of Operations said: "During periods of an Amber Alert, it's really important that people take that very seriously, because we do still see more people reaching out for help through 999.
"That's for a range of things, some very serious presentations, such as breathing difficulties, falls and collapses, but also for things that are more avoidable, people calling us because they've maybe drunk too much or they spend too much time out in the sun that they could have prevented with some sensible precautions like spending time in the shade, drinking lots of water and just being sensible while being out and about."
He revealed that the service took a range of steps during the previous heatwave that are normally only used during the depths of winter when demand peaks, but as summer temperatures rise, they're seeing it required more often.
"We're continuing to understand what we can learn from that and do differently going forwards. And going into this weekend, we are expecting more people to call for our assistance," Pete said.
He is urging people to avoid dialling 999 if they can, opting instead to call NHS 111 or to visit community pharmacies.
"There's a good chance they actually get their care needs met better and quicker than by calling 999."
Warning ahead of crunch World Cup fixture
As well as managing the heat, the nation will be managing its nerves on Saturday as England take on Norway in the World Cup Quarter Finals.
While the match is kicking off at 10pm local time, Pete said high temperatures and football can be a problem for them.
Many will be flocking to pubs in the afternoon ahead of the match and health bosses are urging us to limit alcohol consumption and seek shaded areas in the middle of the day.
Pete says he wants the night to be memorable for an England victory and everyone being safe.
"We all want England to do well, but we want those great nights out to be memorable for all the right reasons, not because those nights out ended in the back of an ambulance."