Amid a sharp rise in temperatures across Una district, the Health Department has issued a heat safety advisory, cautioning people against the growing risk of heatstroke and dehydration, particularly in view of increasing forest fire incidents in the region.
Chief Medical Officer Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Verma said the intense heat conditions could seriously impact public health if proper precautions are not followed. He urged residents to remain vigilant and adopt protective measures to avoid heat-related illnesses during the ongoing summer spell.
The department has advised people to stay hydrated by drinking sufficient water throughout the day and consuming fluids such as ORS, lemon water, and lassi to prevent dehydration. Residents travelling outdoors have been encouraged to carry water with them at all times.
People have also been advised to wear loose-fitting cotton clothes, use caps, umbrellas, or towels to shield themselves from direct sunlight, and avoid stepping outdoors during peak afternoon hours between 12 PM and 4 PM unless absolutely necessary.
The advisory warns against heavy physical exertion, outdoor exercise, and the consumption of alcohol, caffeinated drinks, sugary beverages, and stale food during extreme heat conditions. Parents have also been cautioned not to allow children to remain exposed to direct sunlight for long periods and to never leave children or pets unattended inside parked vehicles.
To reduce indoor heat, the department recommended keeping curtains and windows closed in sun-facing rooms during the day while ensuring proper ventilation at night. Residents have also been encouraged to use fans, cool water, and regularly monitor weather updates.
Dr. Verma highlighted key symptoms of heatstroke, including severe headache, nausea, dizziness, high body temperature, breathing difficulty, fainting, rapid pulse, and red, dry skin, stating that immediate attention is necessary if such symptoms appear.
The advisory further outlined emergency measures for heatstroke victims, including shifting the person to a cool or shaded place, increasing air circulation, applying cool water to the body, and seeking immediate medical assistance in severe cases.
Special caution has been advised for children, pregnant women, outdoor labourers, elderly citizens, and individuals suffering from existing health conditions during the current heatwave-like situation in the district.
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