Local residents are being urged to help protect emergency services as the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust faces record-breaking demand during the ongoing heatwave.
Local residents are being urged to help protect emergency services as the South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust faces record-breaking demand during the ongoing heatwave.
The service received over 5,200 calls and managed more than 4,300 incidents in a single day, the highest ever recorded, with a 34% increase on usual levels. Many calls related to falls, breathing difficulties and fainting, conditions linked to the extreme heat.
Pete Brown, Director of Operations, said the service wants to be there for everyone in a life-threatening emergency, but ambulances must be kept free for those most in need.
He explained that calls for sunburn, feeling overheated and mild dehydration can often be managed at home or with advice from NHS 111 online or local pharmacies. Residents are asked to stay hydrated, avoid the sun during peak hours, and check on vulnerable neighbours.
The ambulance service is also asking people not to call back for updates on ambulance arrival times, as this can delay responses to other emergencies.
Additional MenB vaccination sessions
Work underway to make beach more accessible
Rubble fly-tipped in Dorchester
Lifeboat changes refused by council
Council using gritters to spread sand due to heat
Warning issued to drivers who park illegally
Popular event cancelled due to heat
Further disruption for rail passengers due to heat
School Closures In Weymouth & Portland Due To The Heat
Home Office calls for licence review for Surfside Diner
Questions raised over SEND transport
