Administration urges citizens to stay hydrated, avoid peak afternoon heat and follow safety precautions
Bareilly: In view of rising temperatures and the increasing risk of heat wave conditions, Bareilly DM Avinash Singh has issued a detailed public advisory outlining preventive measures and safety guidelines to protect residents from heat stroke and related illnesses.
The District Magistrate explained that according to the India Meteorological Department, a heat wave is declared when the local temperature remains at least 3 degrees Celsius above normal for three consecutive days. He warned that prolonged exposure to extreme heat and hot winds can lead to serious health complications, including heat stroke and sunstroke.
The administration stated that while temperatures up to 37 degrees Celsius generally do not adversely affect the human body, temperatures beyond that level cause the body to absorb excessive environmental heat, leading to dehydration and other dangerous conditions.
The advisory highlighted major symptoms of heat stroke, including hot and dry skin, excessive sweating, rapid pulse, fast breathing, headache, dizziness, nausea, fatigue, confusion, weakness and reduced urination. Officials warned that exposure to temperatures above 40.6 degrees Celsius for extended periods can severely affect internal organs, especially the brain, and may even prove fatal.
The District Magistrate noted that dehydration and loss of body salts significantly increase the risk of heat stroke. People suffering from heart disease, obesity, diabetes, chronic illnesses and alcohol addiction are considered more vulnerable. Certain medicines, including diuretics, antihistamines and psychiatric drugs, may also increase susceptibility to heat-related illnesses.
As part of the advisory, residents have been urged to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if they do not feel thirsty. People have also been advised to wear loose, light-coloured cotton clothing and use sunglasses, umbrellas, caps and slippers while stepping outdoors.
The administration recommended avoiding direct sunlight between 12 noon and 3 pm and advised people working outdoors to cover their head, face, hands and feet properly. Citizens were also encouraged to consume ORS, lemon water, buttermilk, lassi and other homemade drinks to maintain hydration levels.
The advisory further instructed workplaces to ensure the availability of cool drinking water and prioritise physically demanding tasks during cooler hours of the day. Special care has been advised for pregnant women, elderly citizens and those suffering from illnesses.
Residents were also encouraged to keep homes cool by using curtains, wet cloths and fans and by allowing ventilation during evening hours. The District Magistrate stressed the importance of recognising early symptoms such as dizziness, fainting and excessive sweating and seeking immediate medical assistance when required.
The administration additionally appealed to citizens to care for animals during extreme heat by ensuring they receive water regularly and are not left inside parked vehicles or enclosed spaces without ventilation.
The district administration has urged the public to remain alert and strictly follow all safety measures to minimise the impact of the ongoing heat wave conditions.
