The public has been urged to only call an ambulance in the event of an emergency ahead of an expected heat wave in Northern Ireland.
While there is no extreme heat warning for the region, temperatures are expected to reach 30C in some areas on Monday.
The record temperature in Northern Ireland was 31.3C in Castlederg in July last year.
The Northern Ireland Ambulance Service said it expects an increase in the number of less urgent calls it receives through the 999 system.
Just because we don’t have an extreme heat warning in Northern Ireland doesn’t mean we’re not at risk from dangerous UV rays
A spokesperson said: “To help us protect the most vulnerable, we ask the public to only call in an emergency, but don’t hesitate to do so if necessary.
“Before calling 999, we would like to ask that other options be considered for less serious issues.
“These options may include self-care or advice from other healthcare professionals, such as pharmacists.
“We would also like to ask in advance that patients consider self-transport to the ER (Emergency Department) if possible.
“During the conversation with our control staff, the caller can also be asked at that stage whether it is possible to transport the patient in another way with the aim of receiving definitive care more quickly in the event of scarcity.”
The spokesperson added: “We would like to reiterate that calls are prioritized with less serious calls having to wait longer.
“We apologize for any delays, but we can assure you that we will send an ambulance to you as soon as possible.”
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is calling on people to protect themselves from the sun and to watch out for older and more vulnerable people.
dr. Brid Farrell, deputy director of public health at the PHA, said: “It’s important to care for older people and those who are more prone to potential health problems in warmer weather.
“If you have a friend or family member who is less mobile or might need a little help, make sure you check in with them.
“Help them stay hydrated with regular cold drinks and avoid alcohol.
“Help them keep their homes cool by closing the curtains when the sun comes out and opening the windows in the evening or at night when it’s cooler.
“Encourage them to wear light, loose-fitting clothing so they don’t get too hot, and if you or someone you know starts to feel sick or dizzy, stay out of the sun and seek medical advice.”
dr. Farrell added: “The PHA has also written to healthcare providers in Northern Ireland with advice and guidance on how to care for residents during warmer periods of weather.
“Just because we don’t have an extreme heat warning in Northern Ireland doesn’t mean we’re not at risk from dangerous UV rays, even if it’s cloudy or cloudy.”
The Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) has warned visitors to the coast to exercise “extreme caution.”
Gareth Morrison, the charity’s head of water safety, told the BBC: “The message is very simple this weekend, it is to respect the water when you visit the coastline.”
“The first tip if you’re going to the coast this weekend is to visit a supervised beach.
“If you’re taking kids or yourself to the water, the safest place to do this weekend and into the next week is on a patrolled beach, and I can’t stress enough that one simple act could very simply save your life.”