PARAMEDICS have seen a significant rise in the number of emergency calls received over the last few days, as a result of the heatwave. Gary Sanderson, spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service, said: The majority of calls have been to people wh

PARAMEDICS have seen a significant rise in the number of emergency calls received over the last few days, as a result of the heatwave.

Gary Sanderson, spokesman for the East of England Ambulance Service, said: "The majority of calls have been to people who are collapsing, fainting, or suffering with heat exhaustion or sunburn."

The service has already seen a higher demand than any day last summer, with Saturday the third highest day for calls since May 2008.

Extreme heat can seriously damage your health, and can even result in death.

Heatstroke can develop very suddenly, and rapidly lead to unconsciousness. If you suspect someone has heatstroke call 999 immediately.

For more minor conditions, call NHS Direct on 0845 46 47, or visit your NHS walk-in centre, GP or pharmacist.