UK heatwave: Look out for family and friends, urges new health secretary
Extra measures are being put in place for ambulance services as the UK heatwave approaches, says Health Secretary Steve Barclay.
More call handlers and extra capacity for the 111 helpline are among the steps planned for Monday and Tuesday.
He urged the public to look out for vulnerable relatives and neighbours.
A national emergency has been declared, and the UK’s first red extreme heat warning issued, with temperatures possibly reaching 41C (106F).
That would be the highest temperature ever recorded in the UK – above the current high of 38.7C in Cambridge in 2019.
Mr Barclay said: “The clear message to the public is to take sensible steps in terms of water, shade and cover. That’s the best way of mitigating against the heat.
“We’re asking people to keep an eye out for their neighbours and those who may be vulnerable.”
The extra support for health services also includes extra ambulance capacity, and freeing up space in hospitals so patients are not stuck in ambulances outside, he said.
NHS leaders have warned there could be greater demand for ambulances – and said patients should not be left outside hospitals in hot weather for more than 30 minutes.
The new health secretary was speaking after an emergency Cobra meeting held by the government on Saturday,
Cabinet Office Minister Kit Malthouse, who chaired it, warned of significant disruption to transport and urged people not to travel unless necessary.
“The heat will affect rails, for example, so the trains have to run slower,” he said, adding: “If they don’t have to travel, this may be a moment to work from home.”
Schools are being given help and guidance to enable them to stay open, Mr Malthouse said.
The extra support for health services also includes extra ambulance capacity, and freeing up space in hospitals so patients are not stuck in ambulances outside, he said.
NHS leaders have warned there could be greater demand for ambulances – and said patients should not be left outside hospitals in hot weather for more than 30 minutes.
The new health secretary was speaking after an emergency Cobra meeting held by the government on Saturday,
Cabinet Office Minister Kit Malthouse, who chaired it, warned of significant disruption to transport and urged people not to travel unless necessary.
“The heat will affect rails, for example, so the trains have to run slower,” he said, adding: “If they don’t have to travel, this may be a moment to work from home.”
Schools are being given help and guidance to enable them to stay open, Mr Malthouse said.
