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.