Paramedics ask Londoners to take care during the hot weather

Paramedics at London Ambulance Service are reminding Londoners to stay safe during the hot weather this week and only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency.

Hot weather can have a significant impact on people’s health, and we expect an increase in calls relating to difficulty in breathing, dizziness and fainting, as well as more calls relating to chest pains and heart problems. During the soaring temperatures we often see calls related to respiratory illnesses and cardiac-related calls are common in the days following a heatwave.

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

“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.”

Our teams are always here to help if you need us, but we would ask that people follow advice, use our service wisely and contact your GP, pharmacy or NHS 111 where possible.

The Met Office has issued a Yellow weather warning with temperatures this week expected to reach 32 degrees in the capital.