UK heatwave: Statement from Executive Director of Operations Lee Brooks

PLEASE find below a statement by the Trust's Executive Director of Operations, Lee Brooks, on the Met Office weather warnings in place across the UK today and tomorrow.

Lee Brooks, Executive Director of Operations at the Welsh Ambulance Service, said: “With temperatures predicted to hit 40°C in some parts of the UK today, we cannot remind the public strongly enough to take any and all precautions to stay well.

“Do not underestimate the impact of the heat on your health, even if you’re fit and healthy but especially if you have a pre-existing heart or respiratory condition, like asthma or angina.

“The well-documented pressures on our ambulance service in recent weeks, like extensive hospital handover delays, sustained higher numbers of life-threatening ‘Red’ calls and Covid-19 related staff absence, have real potential to be worsened by the heat.

“We have well-rehearsed plans in place, but ultimately, our resources are finite – at peak we expect there to be 123 emergency ambulances on duty for the whole of Wales today responding to the sickest patients first.

“To stay well, drink plenty of water, keep out of the sun and wear loose-fitted clothing, and if you must venture out, wear sun cream and sunglasses and take extra care around open water.

“For health advice and information, the NHS 111 Wales website – including its Sun and Heat Exposure Symptom Checker – should be your first port of call.

“Please only call 999 in a serious or life-threatening emergency.”