Srinagar, May 25: As different parts of the country witness blistering heat, which has also intensified in the valley, Directorate of Health Services Kashmir on Friday issued an advisory suggesting preventive measures for school children and elderly to tackle the heat wave.
“As summer season has peaked in the Valley, it is crucial to be vigilant about health risks associated with extreme heat. We are committed to ensuring the well-being of our community, and in light of the predicted heat wave, we have issued a health advisory to guide and protect our citizens,” the DHSK advisory said.
The advisory issued after due consultation with the consultation stakeholders suggested people to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
“Avoid caffeinated beverages, as they can lead to dehydration. Persons working under the conditions of high temperature and humidity should assuredly drink cold water,” it said.
It said the duration of exposure to hot environments should be reduced. “Further, periods of rest should be ensured between intense work sessions or one can take cool showers or baths at home to lower your body temperature, however, doing the same in deep and fast flowing water bodies should be avoided at all cost to discourage drowning etc.,” the advisory said.
The advisory asked people to wear lightweight, loose-fitting and light colored clothing and use wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses, shields and umbrellas to protect skin from sunburn.
It suggested that people should avoid strenuous activities during the hottest parts of the day, typically between 10 a.m. to 04 p.m.” If you must be outside, take frequent breaks in the shade of a cool environment or better to stay indoors,” the advisory said. It added that sunscreen should be applied to protect your skin from sunburn.
The health advisory has also issued specific tips for children both at school and at home: “Never leave children in parked cars, even with the windows down. Ensure they play in shaded areas and take breaks to cool down and hydrate,” it said.
It advised parents to dress children in appropriate clothing and apply sunscreen regularly besides encouraging frequent water breaks or offering water-rich snacks like fruits.
“Schools should refrain from holding outdoor activities such as assemblies, sports events during extreme hot and humid weather. They should also ensure good hydration of children by providing multiple safe drinking water stations,” it said.
The advisory has also issued tips for elderly people suggesting to ensure they have access to cool environments.
“Watch for symptoms like dizziness, heavy sweating or lack of sweating, and in that case, seek medical attention immediately from nearby government health care facilities. By following aforesaid guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses during extreme heat events,” it said.
DDMA cautions against swimming in open water bodies
Srinagar, May 25 In view of the prevailing weather conditions and forecast of sustained high temperatures till 29th of May 2024 by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) Srinagar Station, the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) today issued an advisory asking masses especially children to desist from swimming in open water bodies.
As per the advisory, the general public especially children have been advised to refrain from bathing swimming in open water bodies including River Jhelum and its Tributaries, Dal Lake without Expert Guidance and supervision and Protective Equipment including but not restricted to life saving jackets to prevent drowning incidents.
Heads of Educational Institutions have an added responsibility to ensure the safety of the students, who are at a higher risk of facing such mishaps.
Further, local Shikara Wallas are advised to keep a close vigil in the Dal Lake to avoid any mishap.
All Tehsildars (Responsible Officers) shall activate and sensitize the already constituted Zonal Committees in their respective jurisdictions and spread awareness among the vulnerable population to prevent any untoward incident. They shall also maintain a close liaison with their Police Counterparts.
