Surrey and Hampshire's ambulance service warns of increased pressure in hot weather
Temperatures are set to reach 31 degrees across Surrey and East Hampshire
The South East Coast (SEC) Ambulance service is urging people to take care in the sun and ease pressure on their busy service.
The service says it has faced high demand in recent weeks, often handling 3000 calls a day.
In a statement, they added that hot weather usually results in increased calls to the service, relating to dehydration and heat stroke.
They are reminding people to use alternatives to 999 when seeking urgent advice that is not an emergency, such as calling NHS 111.
SEC Ambulance Executive Director of Operations, Emma Williams, said:
“We’ve experienced some very busy periods in recent weeks and we expect that with warmer weather, along with the start of the school holidays and the next stage of easing of coronavirus restrictions, this will continue.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank all our of staff and also our volunteers who have and continue to work so hard to respond to patients.
“We want people to enjoy the sunshine and the outdoors but to take care and be sensible.
"People can continue to help us by remembering to make use of the alternatives to 999 when they’re not facing an emergency, including using NHS 111 or speaking to a GP or pharmacist.
"People can also really help by only calling back 999 if a person’s condition worsens or they no longer require our assistance.”
Temperatures are forecast to soar to 31 degrees in Surrey and East Hampshire.
The hot weather comes as remaining Coronavirus restrictions are lifted. The SEC Ambulance service is urging people to be mindful of the impact of their actions on their service.
SEC Ambulance Service's tips for staying safe in the sun
- Stay in the shade or indoors
- Use sunscreen and cover up
- Increase your fluid intake
- Keep your home cool
- Look after the elderly
- Protect children
- Act safely around water and follow lifeguard advice
- Be sensible with alcohol
- When barbecuing ensure the meat is piping hot