Shillong, June 13: The Joint Secretary, Revenue & Disaster Management, Shillong, Meghalaya, has informed that the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted the heat wave this year of having an early onset and extending for a prolonged period and also indicated increasing trends in the frequency and duration of heat wave over the country.
In this regard the department issues an advisory on the heat wave to mitigate the ill effects of the ensuing heat wave.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.
The Joint Secretary, Revenue & Disaster Management, Shillong the advisory that the people should follow are, 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.
The 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.
The DON’T’s that advice the people should not do are, 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.
