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Paramedics urge Londoners to take care in the sun amid heatwave

The Ambulance Service said it expects an increase in calls relating to breathing difficulties, dizziness and fainting as well as calls relating to chest pains and heart problems due to the hot weather, reports Rana Rastegari

Credit: London Ambulance Service

Paramedics at London Ambulance Service are asking Londoners to stay safe as the weather exceeds 30 degrees this week. Paramedics urge Londoners to only call 999 in a life threatening emergency. 

The Ambulance Service has stated that they expect an increase in calls relating to breathing difficulties, dizziness and fainting as well as calls relating to chest pains and heart problems due to the hot weather. Calls relating to respiratory illnesses and cardiac related problems are common in the days following a heatwave. 

Michael Agnew, a paramedic in the Service’s clinical hub, stated: 

“We hope people enjoy the warmer weather we’ll have in the capital this week. However, our 999 call handlers can take a thousand more calls a day during these temperatures, so we would urge everyone to take a little extra care. 

“Please be aware of the dangers of spending too long in the sun and the health risks of hot weather. Avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight – especially between 11am and 3pm when the sun’s UV rays are at their strongest. Try to stick to shade and wear sun cream. 

“In warmer weather it’s also important to drink plenty of water. If you’re heading out, take a bottle of water with you. Keeping hydrated is especially important if you’re drinking alcohol. 

“Older people, the very young and people with pre-existing conditions are more at risk in hot weather – so please look out for neighbours, family or friends who may need some help and make sure they are able to keep cool during the heat. 

“People can start to feel ill a few days after the hot weather so please do continue to look after yourself and others.” 

As the Met Office has issued a Yellow weather warning with temperatures expected to reach 32 degrees, Londoners are encouraged to use ambulance services wisely and contact GP’s or NHS 11 where possible.


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