THE ambulance service experienced both its busiest and third busiest days on record at the weekend, as people flocked to the south coast to soak up the sun.

South Western Ambulance Service NHS Foundation Trust (SWASFT) responded to 3,522 incidents on Sunday - the busiest day on record - after experiencing its busiest week on record for the second time so far this month.

The trust responded to 23,088 incidents during the seven days up until Sunday, equivalent to one every 26 seconds.

The busiest day on record came the day after the trust's third busiest day on record which was on Saturday, where the ambulance service responded to 3,443 incidents.

Last week's total figure exceeded the previous record of 22,050 during the seven days to July 4 The trust has reported that incident numbers were 30 per cent higher than those recorded on the equivalent week two years ago.

Ahead of what is expected to be another very busy weekend as schools break up for summer, ambulance staff are urging members of the public to use the service sensibly and to only call 999 in a life-threatening emergency, for example, chest pain, a stroke, severe bleeding, serious head injuries or major trauma.

Ceri Smart, SWASFT assistant director of operations, resource manager, said: "Our service is continuing to experience an unprecedented high level of demand, and we have just had two of our three busiest days in our history.

"We are calling on the public to support us in protecting the NHS so we can continue to save lives. Please help us to help you by only calling 999 in a genuine life-threatening emergency and do not call back for an estimated arrival time. For other medical concerns, do contact NHS 111 for advice and support.

"Our people are working incredibly hard, 24/7 to ensure we are there for the people across the south west who need us most."

The trust is also encouraging people to look after themselves and others during the hot and dry weather and are advising people to drink plenty of water, limit their exposure to direct sunlight and check on those who are vulnerable.

People are also advised to carry suncream, antiseptic remedies and paracetamol as well as any regular medication.

Ceri added: "During this period of hot weather, do keep cool, stay hydrated and stay safe. If you're out and about, please be sensible and look after yourself and those with you."

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