Cornwall's ambulance service is still 'really busy' following bank holiday 'critical incident'
Patients are being urged not to call 999 unless it is an immediate or life-threatening emergency
Last updated 1st Jun 2021
Cornwall's ambulance service says it is still 'really busy' after declaring a 'critical incident' over the bank holiday weekend.
South Western Ambulance Service (SWASFT) received 3200 calls on Saturday alone.
Bosses are blaming extreme pressure for the busy period.
The warm weather saw people flock to our coasts to enjoy the sunshine, following the latest easing of lockdown restrictions.
Patients are still being urged to phone 111 or their GP for health advice and to only call 999 in an emergency.
On Sunday, SWASFT tweeted: "We have declared a critical incident due to extreme pressures on our service.
"As a result, some patients may wait longer for an ambulance while others could be advised to access alternative services if their call is not life-threatening.
"We need you to only call 999 in a genuine, life-threatening emergency so we can help those most in need. #Think111 #MakeTheRightCall".
The service later tweeted: "There are extreme pressures on our service.
"999 is for life-threatening emergencies ONLY.
"#HelpUsHelpYou, if you have a non-life-threatening but urgent medical problem, contact NHS 111. For example, broken or fractured bones, sprains, or burns.
"#Think111 #MakeTheRightCall".
South Western Ambulance Service
If you need health care, you can check which service to contact and when here.