Ambulance leaders are advising English football supporters to stay hydrated during the ongoing heatwave as they gear up for the World Cup match against Panama.
The head of the UK’s largest ambulance service has highlighted the mounting pressure on emergency services, emphasizing the importance of drinking water regularly, even if not feeling thirsty. London Ambulance Service (LAS) is urging fans to balance their alcohol intake with water consumption before and during the Panama game on Saturday evening.
This caution coincides with the Met Office announcing that Friday marked the third consecutive day of breaking the June heat record, with Wattisham, Suffolk, recording a provisional temperature of 36.9C, surpassing the previous high of 36.7C in Merryfield, Somerset.
LAS has witnessed a surge in life-threatening emergencies, prompting multiple hospitals to declare critical incidents. The service has observed a 50% increase in 999 calls and a rise in alcohol-related incidents following the previous match against Ghana.
LAS’s chief operating officer, Craig Harman, anticipates a further increase in emergency calls and advises the public to prioritize hydration, avoid excessive sun exposure, and refrain from outdoor activities during peak heat periods.
The capital saw a 50% rise in life-threatening calls on Wednesday compared to a typical June day, with cardiac arrests increasing by 30%, setting a trend likely seen nationwide.
The Met Office has extended its red alert for London and parts of southeast England until Friday night, with temperatures expected to stay above 30C in the south through Saturday.
Darren Farmer, LAS director of ambulance operations, urged responsible drinking habits during the game, emphasizing the risks associated with alcohol consumption, excitement, and warm weather.
As the heatwave persists, hospitals are bracing for heightened demand, with St George’s Hospital in London cautioning the public to stay hydrated, stay cool, and use sunscreen during the upcoming Wimbledon tennis championships.
Transport services have faced disruptions, and a rail operator has discouraged beach travel due to extreme heat conditions.
Several hospitals have declared critical incidents due to the heatwave, impacting planned operations and outpatient services. Additionally, schools have closed, a hosepipe ban has been enforced in Kent, and train services have been affected.
The prevailing heatwave, driven by a stagnant high-pressure “heat-dome” settling over western Europe, continues to bring extreme conditions across the continent.