27 June 2011
Londoners are being urged to use their ambulance service
wisely as the hot weather has seen a surge in demand on the 999
system.
Just under 5,500 emergency calls were received yesterday – an
increase of 32 per cent on the previous Sunday.
The number of calls has remained exceptionally high today and
between 10am and 11am this morning staff in the Service’s control
room answered over 400 calls – more than double the normal
number.
Hot weather can make existing medical conditions worse, and
crews are attending a large number of patients reported to be
suffering from breathing problems, chest pains, loss of
consciousness and fainting.
The Service is now reminding Londoners to only call for an
ambulance in a genuine emergency.
Director of Operations Richard Webber said: “We often see a rise
in 999 calls on particularly hot and sunny days, so I’d urge people
to take care in the sun.
“As ever, we’ll continue to prioritise our response to those
patients who are seriously ill or injured, and I’d urge anyone with
a minor condition to call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47, or visit a
minor injuries unit, walk-in centre or local pharmacist.”
Londoners should also think about how they can care for
themselves in the sun:
- Some people are more at risk from the heat than others – for
example, older people, babies and young children, and people with
any pre-existing medical problems that can affect their
breathing
- Try to keep as cool as possible – wear a hat when sitting or
working outside and use plenty of suncream
- Check up on friends, relatives and neighbours who may be less
able to look after themselves
- Patients with chronic respiratory conditions such as asthma and
bronchitis should carry their prescribed reliever medication and
those with hayfever should carry an anti-histamine
- People with serious health problems (for example heart
conditions), should avoid going out in the heat, especially between
11am and 3pm
- Drink plenty of water and avoid drinking alcohol in the
sun
- Contact your doctor, pharmacist or NHS Direct (0845 46 47 or
http://www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk/) if
you are worried about your health. In an emergency, dial 999 for an
ambulance.
Notes to editors: