NHS staff keep patients safe as red heat alert hits South West

NHS staff across the South West are working around the clock to keep patients safe as a red heat-health alert combines with severe weather and rising demand to put services under pressure.

Temperatures are set to soar even higher from 1am Wednesday 24 June to 11pm Thursday 25 June, meaning the heat could seriously affect people’s health.

Health teams are stepping up preparations – freeing up beds, managing patient flow and supporting vulnerable people—while continuing to respond to unexpected incidents.

Across the region, frontline staff are adapting in real time—balancing high demand in emergency departments and ambulance services with the added risks that hot weather brings. This includes checking on the most vulnerable patients, adjusting care for those with long-term conditions, and supporting safe discharge to ease pressure on hospitals.

Health leaders say staff are showing “remarkable resilience and teamwork” despite the challenges, with services working together across hospitals, community care and ambulance trusts to maintain patient safety.

People being asked to play their part by taking simple steps to stay well and choosing the right NHS service. Hot weather can worsen existing conditions such as heart, lung and kidney disease, and increases the risk of dehydration and overheating—even for otherwise healthy people.

Dr Trevor Smith, Regional Medical Director for NHS England South West, said: “Our staff are working incredibly hard to keep people safe and are showing remarkable resilience and teamwork.”

“The most important thing people can do is take simple steps to stay well—keep hydrated, avoid the hottest part of the day, and look out for others. With the World Cup underway, there is also a reminder to drink alcohol sensibly to reduce the risk of dehydration. Choosing the right NHS service will also help us care for those who need it most.”

NHS services remain open for those who need care, but people are encouraged to use NHS 111 online advice or pharmacies for non-urgent issues, helping emergency services focus on those in greatest need.

The NHS App also links to NHS 111 online and offers advice for a wide range of symptoms. You can also visit the NHS website for trusted health information and to find local pharmacies, dentists and GP services.