With temperatures expected to rise in the coming days, the NHS in London is urging people to take care in the hot weather and use NHS services wisely.

At the end of June when temperatures climbed to more than 30C in the Captial, calls to London Ambulance Service increased to around 7,000 calls over a couple of days, an additional thousand to the same period in May.

While the warmer weather is enjoyable for many, the heat can cause some people to become unwell through overheating (becoming uncomfortably hot), dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke.

Karen Bonner, Chief Nurse for the NHS in London, offers her advice for staying safe in the heat, here.

She said: “We can expect some very hot weather over the next few days, and into the weekend, and I would like people to enjoy the sun, but also stay safe by taking precautions to keep well and avoid putting pressure on NHS services.

“People should keep out of the sun at the hottest time of the day, between 11am and 3pm. If you are going to do a physical activity, for example exercise or walking the dog, plan to do these during times of the day when it is cooler such as the morning or evening.”

Karen also suggested drinking plenty of fluids, applying sunscreen and limiting alcohol intake.

She said: “Hot weather can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, lung problems and other diseases. Older people, babies and young children are more likely to be unwell from hot weather because their bodies are less able to regulate temperature. People with underlying medical conditions can also be vulnerable to the effects of hot weather.”

Hot weather increases the demand on NHS services, especially A&E departments and the 111 phone service. People should use NHS 111 online as their first point of contact for non-emergency medical advice.

The NHS App links to NHS 111 online which offers help for a wide range of symptoms and medical conditions. Health advice and information is also available via the NHS website, including help finding a local pharmacy, dentist, and GP practice.

NHS 111 online is not available for children under five. People looking for urgent medical help for under 5s should use the 111 phone line.

People who are at higher risk of becoming seriously unwell include:

• older people aged 65 years and over (note change from previous guidance of 75 years of age and above)

• babies and young children aged 5 years and under

• people with underlying health conditions particularly heart problems, breathing problems, dementia, diabetes, kidney disease, Parkinson’s disease, or mobility problems

• people on certain medications

• people with serious mental health problems

• people who are already ill and dehydrated (for example from diarrhoea and vomiting)

• people who experience alcohol or drug dependence

• people who are physically active and spend a lot of time outside such as runners, cyclists and walkers

• people who work in jobs that require manual labour or extensive time outside

• people experiencing homelessness, including rough sleepers and those who are unable to make adaptations to their living accommodation such as sofa surfers or living in hostels.
• people who live alone and may be unable to care for themselves.