Saturday was the second busiest day in the history of Cornwall's ambulance service

The South Western Trust is continuing to see unprecedented high-levels of demand

Author: Lauren WattPublished 19th Jul 2021
Last updated 19th Jul 2021

Cornwall's ambulance service is once again urging people to only call 999 in an emergency as they continue to see unprecedented high-levels of demand.

On Saturday the 17th July, the South Western Ambulance Trust (SWAST) recorded their second busiest day on record.

People who have called for an ambulance are also being urged not to ring again asking for a time of arrival.

You should only call again if the patient's condition worsens or you no longer need help.

SWAST says call handlers must prioritise speaking to the most seriously injured and unwell patients.

The Assistant Director of Operations, William Lee, has recorded a video with a message for the public calling for their support.

In the video, the public are asked to be aware of the following:

Only call 999 in genuine, life-threatening emergency.

Don't call the service back on 999 for an estimated time of arrival ETA as they will not be able to provide one. Calling back for ETAs means that people who need immediate, lifesaving instructions cannot get through.

Please do call them back in you no longer need their help or if the patient’s condition worsens.

If you’re out in the sun, stay hydrated, stay in the shade and look after each other.

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