Taking the heat off London
All over the capital, the volunteer teams
of St John Ambulance London (Prince of Wales’s) District have been
on hand in the soaring temperatures to treat sun-related injuries
and ailments.
Over 150 treated at Wimbledon daily
Each day at SW19, a team of 50 has been providing first aid care
to spectators. The hot conditions typically resulting in over 150
treated per day. Last Friday’s casualty figures reached 177 and
Saturday's 172.
In most cases, tournament-goers have been exhibiting dehydration
and mild heat exhaustion, brought on by temperatures close to 30
degrees.
St John Ambulance cover extends beyond Wimbledon
At the London Bikeathon, 87 people were treated – with
approximately 15 to 20% of those being heat-related. During the
live music at Hyde Park 326 people received care.
The St John Ambulance London team were also present in Central
London for Sunday's World Cup game to ensure people didn’t suffer
from the heat or crowds.
Ann Cable, commissioner for St John Ambulance London (Prince of
Wales's) District, said it isn’t unusual for her team to have a
large number of events happening at once in the summer
calendar.
'It's at times like this that our dedicated volunteers really
come into their own, showing their huge devotion to the
organisation and their commitment to keeping people across the
capital safe and healthy at all times.'
Hot weather advice
St John Ambulance has issued the following advice to those set
to enjoy events in the capital in the continuing hot
temperatures:
- Stay hydrated – if the weather is hot; ensure you have water
with you at all times
- Queuing – can be a lengthy process at events like
Wimbledon
- Protection from the sun – the excitement of the event can cause
you to neglect the risk of sunburn and sunstroke. Cover yourself up
and use a good sun block
- Wearing a hat – provides extra protection from the sun.