Heat wave advisory

The adverse impacts of heat wave are preventable by educating the public on the preventive actions and by following the important DO’s and DON’Ts.

DO’s

• Listen to Radio, watch TV, read Newspaper for local weather forecast to know if a heat wave is on the way.
• Drink sufficient water and as often as possible, even if not thirsty.
• Wear lightweight, light coloured, loose and porous cotton clothes. Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in the sun.
• While travelling carry water with you.
• If you work outside, use hat or an umbrella and also use damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs.
• Use ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, buttermilk, etc which help to re-hydrate the body
• Recognize the signs of heat stroke, heat rash or heat cramps such as weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating and seizures. If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor immediately.
• Keep animals in shade and give them plenty of water to drink.
• Keep your home cool, use curtains, shutters or sunshade and open windows at night.
• Use fans, damp clothing and take bath in cold water frequently.
• Provide cool drinking water near work place.
• Caution workers to avoid direct sunlight.
• Schedule strenuous jobs to cooler times of the day.
• Increasing the frequency and length of rest breaks for outdoor activities.
• Pregnant workers and workers with a medical condition should be given additional attention.

DON’T’s

• Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles.
• Avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m.
• Avoid wearing dark, heavy and tight clothing.
• Avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high. Avoid working outside between 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m.
• Avoid cooking during peak hours. Open windows and doors to ventilate cooking area adequately.
• Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks which dehydrate the body.
• Avoid high-protein food and do not eat stale food.