With high temperatures expected to lead to a significant increase in demand on our services, we’re urging everyone to take some simple steps to stay safe in the sun.
Calls are expected to increase this weekend and throughout next week where much of the region will experience temperatures in excess of 30 degrees.
May’s heatwave saw a 30 per cent increase in calls with more than 3,500 calls to 999 handled on the busiest days across the May bank holiday.
We’re also expecting high demand as England continue their World Cup campaign against Ghana on Tuesday evening. Calls are expected to increase after the final whistle and people are urged not to put off calling 999 if they are facing a genuine emergency.
Supporters are urged to plan ahead, stay hydrated with soft drinks and water and ensure they get home safely.
The public is urged help ease pressure on the service throughout the summer by only calling 999 in an emergency and making use of alternatives including NHS 111 or by speaking to a community pharmacist.
Help and advice is available via NHS 111 by phone or online and many pharmacists can also offer prescription medicine for a number of minor conditions including earache and sore throat, without needing to see a GP or make an appointment.
Further health advice, information on NHS services and the available can be found at www.nhs.uk
Advice to stay safe during hot weather
- Stay in the shade or indoors, particularly between 11am and 3pm, when the sun is strongest.
- Drink plenty of fluids and increase your intake during very hot weather to avoid dehydration.
- Wear sunscreen, lightweight clothing and a hat if spending time outdoors.
- Keep homes cool by closing windows while outdoor temperatures are higher and ventilating later in the day or overnight.
- Check on elderly relatives, neighbours and vulnerable people, who are more at risk during heatwaves.
- Protect babies and young children, ensuring they stay hydrated and out of direct sunlight.
- Avoid strenuous physical activity during the hottest parts of the day where possible.
- Be careful around water and always follow lifeguard or local safety advice.
- Take care with alcohol, which can contribute to dehydration.
- Store and prepare food safely, especially during barbecues and outdoor gatherings where warm weather increases the risk of bacteria growth.
Remember, heat stroke can kill. It can develop very suddenly and rapidly lead to unconsciousness. If you suspect someone is suffering from heat stroke call 999 immediately.
While waiting for the ambulance you should listen carefully to the call handler and follow the instructions given to you. The following can also help someone suffering from heat stroke:
- If possible, move the person somewhere cooler
- Increase ventilation by opening windows or using a fan
- Cool the patient down as quickly as possible by loosening their clothes, sprinkling them with cold water or wrapping them in a damp sheet
- If they are conscious, give them water or fruit juice to drink
- Do not give them aspirin or paracetamol