AMBULANCE service bosses are warning residents to protect themselves in the increasing heat as temperatures reach more than 30°C.
The West Midlands Ambulance Service Trust is urging the public make sure they apply suncream, resist the urge to cool off in open bodies of water, and not to sit out in the heat for too long, especially for those who may already suffer with breathing difficulties.
Those with children under six-months-old should keep them out of direct sunlight but everyone is encouraged to cover themselves in sunscreen, and wear a hat to prevent their heads from burning.
One of the concerns for WMAS is the number of calls to serious breathing problems resulting from the increasing warm conditions, particularly between 11am and 3pm when the day is at its hottest.
A West Midlands Ambulance Service spokesman said: “The hot weather can make breathing difficult for healthy individuals, so for those with pre-existing breathing problems it can obviously be a difficult time.
“Those who suffer with emphysema, asthma and long term breathing problems should take extra care over the next few days, remaining indoors as much as possible.
“If you have elderly relatives or neighbours, please take a few minutes to check that they are ok and have everything they need in order to look after themselves.
“If everyone looks after each other as well as themselves, hopefully this will reduce the number of people who need to dial 999 for our help.”
