Bhubaneswar: While living in a tropical country like India, coming across heat waves is inevitable. But that does not mean we can’t protect ourselves from sunstroke. Amidst heatwave forecasts, several state governments have released guidelines. Meanwhile, IMD has advised the public to stay hydrated during the hot weather and take precautions. Here are a few precautions to follow to safeguard yourself from the blistering heat…
Make The Umbrella & Sunscreen Your BFF
If you have to step outside in the sun, guard yourself with an umbrella, goggles, and a bottle of sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30.
Avoid Crowded Places
The risk of succumbing to sunstroke is greater if you are in a crowd with little scope for breathing. Maintain social distancing and avoid overcrowded buses, metros, and fairs.
Steer Clear From Fancy Dresses
While the choice of attire is completely a matter of personal choice, the heatwave conditions require a certain type of clothing if one wants to get relief. One must wear loose-fitting clothes which minimize the effect of heat on the body. Stick to light/pastel-coloured dresses or clothes made from cotton. Avoid dark-coloured clothes as that can lead to you feeling warmer.
Drink Lots of Water
Staying hydrated can be a great way to beat off the heat. However, avoid fizzy/soft drinks. Stick to water. If in need of anything sweeter, ask for a glass of coconut water or watermelon juice. Sweating is caused by excessive heat, which depletes your energy and electrolytes. You may restore your body’s electrolytes by drinking water with mineral-rich fruits like watermelon, lemon, and kiwi. Fluids in any form, such as lemonades, fruit juices, chass/ lassi, assist your body in regaining fluid balance.
Stay Away From Fast Food
We should stay away from spicy food during summer because it is not at all advisable for our health. Stick to home-cooked food and fresh fruits such as apples, pears, guavas, etc. You can also have a bowl of curd.
Keep Cool Ambience
One can keep his/her home cool during the heatwave. Closing the curtains to prevent sun rays may help.
Know Symptoms
While the detrimental impact of heatwaves on a human body can differ from person to person, one should take additional precautions to mitigate the effect of severe heat. Other adverse effects can lead to weakness, lethargy, body aches. In severe cases, there may be heat strokes which cause loss of consciousness and seizures.
Not venturing outdoors during the peak hot hours
If at all possible, avoid going outside when the temperature is too hot. Prefer to go later in the evening when the temperature is a bit cooler. if you’re working outside in the heat, stop and go inside to cool off, especially if you feel lightheaded, confused, or faint.
