PARAMEDICS are urging people to only call in a "life-threatening" emergency as they are currently working under pressure.
South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust have been experiencing extremely high demand over the past few weeks.
A SWASFT spokesperson said: “It is putting substantial pressure on our limited resources. We are doing all we can to manage the situation, and our colleagues are working tirelessly to continue providing a safe and effective service to our patients, while continuing to prioritise those who are critically ill.
“We urge people to choose well and only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency. For example: if someone has stopped breathing, is unconscious or has serious bleeding.
“If someone has a non-life-threatening but urgent medical problem, please contact NHS 111 online or by phone. Such problems include: broken or fractured bones, sprains, or burns. For other medical problems, people should contact their GP surgery or pharmacy, or care for themselves at home.”
They had to declare a 'critical incident' at the end of May.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereLast Updated:
Report this comment Cancel