ALL of Berkshire’s emergency services have teamed up to issue a warning in response to the Met Office’s red extreme heat weather warning.
From Sunday through to Tuesday evening, temperatures are expected to soar. It’s possible that the heat could surpass records and reach 40ºC on Monday and Tuesday.
Advice to help the region cope has been issued by Thames Valley Police, South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, and Fire and Rescue Services from Oxfordshire, Royal Berkshire and Buckinghamshire.
All services are expecting an increase in demand.
Communities are being encouraged to only dial 999 in emergency situations, which includes when a life is in danger or a crime is happening right now.
There are mechanisms in place for those who need to contact the police and health services in non-emergencies, including online services.
Deputy Chief Constable Jason Hogg, Chair of the Thames Valley Local Resilience Forum said: “As temperatures increase across the Thames Valley, so will calls to 999.
“We are working closely with our fire, ambulance, health and local authority partners to prepare for the challenges that heat brings, and to keep our communities safe.
“Do take advice on water and fire safety and look after yourself and keep hydrated.”
He continued: “With the expected heat warning over the coming days, we are expected to see an increase in individuals contacting the police, sometimes for matters we cannot help with.
“To speak to the police about anything that is not an emergency and where you do not need to speak to someone at that moment in time, please contact us online.
“This will help keep our 101 service for those who need to speak to someone and help preserve 999 as an emergency line if a crime is happening now or life or property is at immediate risk.”
Paul Jefferies, Assistant Director of Operations at South Central Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust, warned that heat exhaustion can lead to heat stroke which, if not treated quickly, can be very serious.
“We are asking people to follow NHS advice about changing your behaviour to cope better with the expected high temperatures, and therefore prevent avoidable 999 emergencies,” he said.
“We continue to prioritise our response to those patients with life-threatening and serious emergencies but, due to current levels of pressure we are seeing, there will be delays in responding to other patients with less urgent needs who are assessed as requiring an ambulance response.
“We are asking patients to help us at this time by seeking alternative treatment or advice via NHS 111 online or by calling 111, using local urgent care centres, or speaking to their GP or pharmacist. We are also asking people not to call 999 back to ask about an estimated time unless the patient’s condition has changed.
“This keeps the line free for someone who may need urgent assistance.”
And the fire and rescue service is concerned about people trying to cool off by jumping into rivers, lakes or canals, or letting fires get of control.
Doug Buchanan, from Royal Berkshire Fire and Rescue Service, said: “With hot and dry weather, usually comes an increase in accidental fires. It’s more likely barbecues and bonfires will become out of control and they can rapidly escalate into wildfires, leading to greater demand on emergency services.
“We need your help to prevent these outdoor fires by following our top tips.
“It is also important to stay safe around water. Whilst it may be tempting, it is strongly advised not to enter lakes or rivers as cold water shock can be fatal. It is much safer to find other ways to keep cool and enjoy the summer weather.”
Other advice included ensuring cigarettes are properly extinguished, checking on others including older people, young children, babies, and those with underlying health conditions.
Curtains should be closed to keep indoor soaces cooler. Sometimes, it can be cooler outside than inside.
And people should drink plenty of water, stay in shade, dress appropriately and slow down when it is hot.
