Amid the escalating heatwave conditions, the Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) issued guidelines on Wednesday to help citizens minimize the impact of the heat and prevent serious ailments or even death due to heatstroke.
A report by news agency ANI stated that IMD mentioned that the national capital recorded a maximum temperature of 43.6 degrees Celsius on Wednesday.
The DDMA advises citizens to avoid going out in the sun, particularly between 12 noon and 3 pm, when the sun’s rays are most intense. They also recommend drinking plenty of water regularly, even if one does not feel thirsty, to stay hydrated.
Additionally, the DDMA suggests wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose, and porous cotton clothes to keep cool, and using protective gear such as goggles, umbrellas or hats, and shoes or sandals when venturing out in the sun. People are advised to avoid strenuous activities and outdoor work between 12 noon and 3 pm, and to carry water while traveling.
The DDMA also advises against consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks, which can dehydrate the body, as well as high-protein food and stale foods. For those working outside, using a hat or an umbrella and a damp cloth on the head, neck, face, and limbs can help keep the body cool. They also caution against leaving children or pets in parked vehicles, which can quickly become dangerously hot.
If feeling faint or ill, the DDMA urges people to seek immediate medical attention. They recommend using Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS) and homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, and buttermilk to help rehydrate the body.
The DDMA also advises protecting animals by keeping them in the shade and providing them with plenty of water to drink. To keep homes cool, they suggest using curtains, shutters, or sunshades and opening windows at night. Additionally, using fans, damp clothing, and taking frequent baths in cold water can help maintain a comfortable temperature indoors.
According to the IMD, a heatwave is a period of unusually high temperatures compared to what is normally expected over a region. A heatwave is considered if the maximum temperature of a station reaches at least 40 degrees Celsius or more for plains and at least 30 degrees Celsius or more for hilly regions.
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