Collector issues heatwave advisory amid soaring temperatures in State

MARGAO
With temperatures soaring by the day, the South Goa District Collector Egna Cleetus has issued a public notice with a plea to members of the public to take safety measures during the heatwave.
The Collector has advised all citizens to take precautions to reduce the risk of heat-related illnesses and ensure personal safety in view of the rising temperatures across the State of Goa.
In the advisory, the Collector has issued Dos and Don’ts to ensure that people stay safe and protected.
As part of the do’s measures, people are advised to listen to the radio, watch TV, read newspapers for local weather news or download weather-related mobile apps; drink sufficient water as often as possible, even if not thirsty; wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose and porous cotton clothes; use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in the sun; carry water while travelling; if you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs; use ORS, coconut water, homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water and buttermilk, which help to rehydrate the body; open doors and windows to ventilate cooking areas adequately; visit a doctor immediately if you feel faint or ill; keep animals in the shade and give them plenty of water to drink; keep some drinking water for birds in small pots on the roof/balcony; keep your home cool, use curtains, shutters or sunshades and open windows at night; use a fan, damp clothing and take baths in cold water frequently; provide cool drinking water near the workplace; caution workers to avoid direct sunlight; schedule strenuous jobs during cooler times of the day and provide additional attention to pregnant workers and others with a medical condition.
As part of the don’ts, the Collector’s advisory has urged people to avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12 noon and 3 pm; not leave children or pets in parked vehicles; avoid wearing dark, heavy or tight clothing; avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high; avoid cooking during peak hours; avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, which dehydrate the body; avoid high-protein food and do not eat stale food.
The Collector has cautioned that a heatwave can cause serious health issues such as heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Timely precautions can prevent emergencies.