LONDON: Ambulance service warns of increased calls during hot weather (From This Is Local London)

LONDON: Ambulance service warns of increased calls during hot weather

8:10am Wednesday 1st July 2009

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WITH more hot weather expected today (July 1), the ambulance service has warned the number of emergency calls it is answering is mirrored by the soaring temperatures.

The London Ambulance Service’s control room sent paramedics to 2,152 patients reported to be seriously ill or injured over the weekend, compared with 1,751 during the previous Saturday and Sunday.

It is an increase of 23 per cent and deputy director of operations Jason Killens said: “The weekend was very busy for both our control room and frontline staff and we would urge everyone to take care when they are out and about in the sun this week.

“Hot weather can be very dangerous for the young, older people or those with serious illnesses.

“With the temperatures set to be high over the next few days, our priority will continue to be to respond to patients who are seriously ill or injured.”

Of the emergency incidents, 489 were for breathing problems, up from 369 the previous weekend.

Incidents of chest pains increased from 412 to 461, while patients who had lost consciousness or fainted totalled 437, up from 364.

The Met Office say temperatures in Biggin Hill may well hit 28C today, with rain expected on Friday (July 3).

The ambulance service is urging people to only call paramedics in a genuine emergency, drink plenty of water and to wear a hat and sun cream.

A spokesman added: “Some people are more at risk from the heat than others - for example older people, babies and young children, and people with any pre-existing medical problems that can affect their breathing.”

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