A heat wave is a prolonged period of abnormally hot weather. With an overall warming of the Earth’s climate, heat waves are expected to become more frequent, longer, and more intense in places where they already occur. Increased frequency and severity of heat waves can lead to more illness and death, particularly among older adults, the young, and other vulnerable groups.

DO’S AND DON’TS

Do’s:-

• Drink 2 to 3 litres of water per day or sufficient water, as often as possible, even if not thirsty.

• Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, porous natural fibre clothes.

• While traveling, carry water with you.

• If you work outside, keep hat and clothing damp.

• Use umbrella, sunscreen as sun burn limits your ability to cope up with heat.

• If you suffer chronic illness or feel ill, see a doctor.

• Use ORS, homemade indigenous drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon sharbat(lemon water), butter milk, etc., which help to rehydrate the body, and protect us from sunstroke.

• Keep animals in the shade with plenty of water.

• Keep your home cool with curtain, shutters or awnings on the sunny side and open windows at night.

• Use fans, damp clothing and have frequent cool showers.

• When a person is affected by heat wave, ensure the person lies down in a cool place;wipe her/him with a wet cloth/wash the body frequently.

• Pour normal water on the head of the affected person to bring down the body temperature.

• Use an icepack on the head of the affected person.

• Do not go out in the hot sun, especially between 12 noon to 3 p.m.

• Do not undertake strenuous activities; avoid work outside during 12 noon to 3 p.m.

• Do not consume alcoholic, caffeinated or carbonated drinks, which dehydrate the body.

• Do not eat high-protein foods, which increase metabolic heat.

• Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles.

• Do not come directly in touch with sunlight.