Preparing for a heatwave is essential to ensure safety and minimize the risks associated with extreme temperatures. Heatwaves can lead to severe health problems, such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, and dehydration. Vulnerable populations, including the elderly, children, and those with chronic illnesses, are particularly at risk. Additionally, heatwaves can cause power outages, wildfires, and water shortages. Regularly check weather forecasts from reliable sources. Use apps and alerts to stay informed about heatwave warnings. Understand the heat index, which combines air temperature and humidity to give a more accurate measure of how hot it feels. Ensure your air conditioning units are serviced and working efficiently. If you don’t have air conditioning, identify the coolest room in your house or consider investing in portable fans or air conditioners. Improve home insulation to keep the heat out. Use shades, blinds, or curtains to block out the sun. At night, if it’s cooler outside, use fans to draw in the cool air. Use heat-reflective paint on your roof and install reflective window films to reduce indoor temperatures. Drink plenty of water regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks, as they can dehydrate you. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable materials like cotton. Use hats and sunglasses when outdoors. Apply broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. Reapply every two hours and after swimming or sweating. Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day (usually 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.). If you must exercise, do it early in the morning or late in the evening. Take frequent breaks in the shade or a cool place. Don’t overexert yourself, as this increases the risk of heat-related illnesses. Identify local cooling centers where you can stay during extreme heat. Libraries, malls, and community centers often serve this purpose. Check on elderly neighbors and those with health conditions to ensure they are safe and have access to cool environments and hydration. Utilize community swimming pools to cool off, ensuring they are open and safe to use during the heatwave. Have an emergency kit with essentials like water, non-perishable food, medications, and first aid supplies. Be prepared for power outages. Have battery-operated fans, extra batteries, and a backup power source if possible. Keep your phone charged and have a backup battery. Develop a family emergency plan that includes what to do if you get separated and how to communicate during a power outage. Ensure pets have access to plenty of fresh water and shade. Avoid walking dogs during peak heat times. Make sure outdoor animals have adequate shelter from the sun and access to cool water. Know the signs of heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion (heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea) and heatstroke (high body temperature, confusion, unconsciousness). Seek medical attention immediately if symptoms occur. Use cool showers or baths to reduce body temperature. Use wet cloths or ice packs on the neck, wrists, and ankles to cool down quickly.
Preparation is key to staying safe during a heatwave. By taking proactive measures such as staying informed, preparing your home, maintaining hydration, and recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers of extreme heat. Community support and planning further enhance resilience against the impact of heatwaves.
Union Health Minister J P Nadda also reviewed the heatwave situation across the country and preparedness of hospitals to deal with heatwave with senior officials of the Health Ministry, here today. The Health Minister has directed officials to ensure all that hospitals are prepared to provide the best healthcare to those affected by the heatwave. Nadda also directed for special heatwave units to be started in the central government hospitals.
