Due to the effects of climate change, April is set to be the hottest summer month in recent years. The county has reported several bouts of heatwaves in the past two weeks. Furthermore, the IMD warned on Tuesday that the heatwave would last until the end of April.
Several cities in Northern India have reported temperatures ranging from 43.4 degrees Celsius to 45.1 degrees Celsius. Furthermore, temperatures in western Rajasthan have not fallen below 40 degrees Celsius since March. On the other hand, the temperature in the national capital has been above 38 degrees since March.
A person has to take care of themselves during the heatwave. Here are the Dos and Don’ts during the heatwave.
Dos
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Drink sufficient water as often as possible. Water should be drunk even if one is not thirsty.
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Whenever you are travelling, carry a bottle of water with you.
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While roaming outside, always wear a cap or a hat and use a damp cloth on your head.
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Wear light coloured cotton clothing as much as possible.
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Recognize the symptoms of heatstroke. They include; weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating and seizures.
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In the event of dehydration, drink ORS/coconut water/lemon water/buttermilk, among others. These drinks will help your body to rehydrate.
Don’ts
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Please do not go out in the sun, especially between noon and three p.m.
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Avoid wearing dark, heavy and tight-fitting clothes.
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Avoid strenuous exercises and activities when the outside temperatures are high.
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Avoid the consumption of liquids (tea, alcohol, coffee, etc) that will dehydrate the body.
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Avoid eating protein-rich food and stale food.
Stay safe during the heat waves.
References: @fayedsouza and tnsdma.tn.gov.in
Featured image source: The Indian Express
