999 calls rocket in hot weather

West Midlands Ambulance Service received so many calls across the weekend that at times they were busier than an average New Year’s Eve.

On Friday and Saturday the service dealt with about 2,500 incidents across the West Midlands.

The main cause of the increase is thought to be more reports of chest pains and breathing difficulties.

But analysis of the calls showed the service also received more inappropriate calls, including alcohol related incidents of assault and irresponsible behaviour.

The service said they pulled out all the stops to answer and attend calls as quickly as possible.

But they appealed for people to think before dialling 999 and consider whether they really need an ambulance in order to protect the most seriously ill and injured.

The busiest single hour across the weekend was between 8pm and 9pm on Sunday night.

In this hour alone the service received 213 emergency 999 calls, more calls than they received on an average New Year’s Eve.

Saturday night was also a particularly busy time.

Across the West Midlands West Mercia saw the second highest percentage increase in calls on Friday, being up 20.4 per cent on the same date in 2011.

On Saturday night the area had the highest increase in calls, receiving 31.3 per cent more than last year.

Mark Gough, assistant chief ambulance officer, said: “The ambulance service is there for life-threatening conditions and emergencies such as choking, chest pain, a stroke, serious blood loss or a state of unconsciousness, but inappropriate calling can delay our response to those in genuine need.

"The more minor cases can be treated quickly and effectively by other areas of the NHS such as NHS Direct, a local pharmacy, walk-in centre or GP who all operate an out-of-hours service.”

Despite the increase in calls to the ambulance service, Hereford and Worcester Fire and Rescue Service said there was no noticeable change in 999 calls over the weekend.

West Mercia Police were unable to provide figures.