London Ambulance Service has said that Mondays are now among its 'busiest' days as it urged non-emergences to use the 111 service.

It pleaded with the public to help the team speak to and treat the most seriously ill and injured patients.

The Service said that if a medical worry is urgent, but not an emergency, to use the 111 service.

It reminded the public that 999 is for ‘serious medical emergencies’.

 

The full update said: "Mondays are now among our busiest days.

"Please help us speak to and treat the most seriously ill and injured patients.

"If your medical worry is urgent, but it's not an emergency, please go to http://111.nhs.uk. 999 is for serious medical emergencies."

London Ambulance Service also said its demand has risen ‘significantly’ over summer months – with up to 7,000 or 8,000 calls 999 calls in a 24 hour period.

A usual ‘busy’ day sees 999 control room teams take around 5,500 calls.

The Service said that 999 calls for non-life-threatening emergencies might mean waiting longer for an ambulance to ensure those who are seriously ill are given treatment first.

It also added that ringing back to ask how long crews will be will delay a caller speaking to someone who is seriously ill – and that calls back should only be if the patient’s condition worsens or they no longer need help.

The Service also pleaded with the public to ‘drink plenty of water’ to stay hydrated over the summer, and also when drinking alcohol.

It said ‘please be sensible when drinking so you don’t need to call us for help’.

For urgent medical help when it’s not an emergency, go to NHS111 online first.

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