Emergency services urge the public to take care during latest heatwave
08.07.26
The Welsh Ambulance Service and South Wales Fire and Rescue Service are urging the public to take extra care during the latest heatwave.
Services across Wales recently experienced a surge in demand due to the extended periods of excessive heat.
The Welsh Ambulance Service alone took more than 400 extra emergency calls each day during June’s heatwave and is reminding the public to only call 999 in a genuine, life‑threatening emergency.
Those who are unwell or have a minor injury can visit the NHS 111 Wales website or try Albot - The NHS Wales Digital assistant, which can help you find answers to most questions and can help you access the right care, in the right place, at the right time.
Darren Panniers, Head of Service, said: “We have seen that warmer weather increases demand and can contribute to incidents such as falls through dehydration, dizziness, low blood pressure, fatigue and reduced mobility.
“People should look out for the warning signs of dehydration, which include confusion or altered behaviour, weakness, excessive tiredness, headaches and reduced appetite.
“Early recognition and intervention is important and simple steps such as providing cold drinks, ice lollies and foods with high water content can make a significant difference in preventing dehydration.”
Other incidents which have resulted from the hot weather have included people getting into difficulties in open water.
Station Manager Gavin Murphy, for South Wales Fire and Rescue Service shared important advice, saying: "We want people to enjoy the warm weather, but we are urging everyone to take care around open water.
“Rivers, lakes, reservoirs, quarries and canals can look calm and inviting, but they can be cold, deep and unpredictable.
“Warm weather does not mean warm water, and cold water can affect your breathing and swimming ability very quickly.
“This is not about stopping people enjoying themselves, it is about helping them enjoy the warm weather safely.
“Wherever possible, choose supervised locations to swim, never jump into open water, avoid alcohol around water, and if you see someone in trouble, call 999."