As the country continues to be sweltered by a blazing heatwave with temperatures reaching 45 degrees in several places, as per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the temperature is expected to rise and the heatwave will continue to grip North India.
This scorching heat can lead to consequences such as dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat rashes, sunburn, increased heart rate and lower blood pressure.
Here’s a guide to note to stay safe in India’s soaring heat.
Do’s
– Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Increase your intake of salty liquids (lassi, lemon water, fruit juices, ORS).
– When outdoor, stay in the shade and use an umbrella, hat, cap, or wet towel
– Consume hydrating fruits like watermelon, cucumber, lemon, or orange.
– Wear cotton clothing that is lightweight, light-coloured, flowy, and breathable.
– Use curtains, cross ventilation, shutters or sunshades to keep the indoors cool, and open the windows at night.
– Keep a damp towel handy, take cold showers frequently, and try to stay in an open area.
– If a person feels unwell, especially the elderly, children, pregnant women, or those with pre-existing medical conditions, they should be shifted to a cooler spot, reduce to minimum clothing, sponged with cold water, applied ice packs wrapped in cloth, and be moved to the nearest health facility.
– Keep pets in shade and hydrated.
Don’ts
– Consume dehydrating drinks like alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks.
– Do strenuous activities that increase your heart rate, like gym, running, or lifting heavyweights.
– Go out in the sun, especially between 12:00 noon and 3:00 pm.
– Wear dark coloured, synthetic and tight garments.
– Leave children or pets in a parked vehicle or anywhere outdoors.