Stay Cool, Stay Safe - Survive The Sizzle of Summer

The blazing sun shows no mercy as India gears up for another scorching summer. The era of global boiling has arrived. The climate is changing. It's horrifying. And this is only the start. The director general of IMD - Mrutyunjay Mahapatra, warns – to brace for hotter days from April to June across India. Heat waves hit more often, especially in May-June, with Central India feeling the burn.

Prepare yourself to face the heat and have a safe summer! As temperatures soar and the sun blazes, it's important to follow expert advice on how to stay safe and healthy when it gets super hot outside. Don't worry though! This article will share easy tips from experts to help you beat the heat this summer. With a few easy tips, you can get through those blazing days without any problems.

So let us get prepared to take on the sun and high temperatures the smart way!

Understanding the Risks: Heat Waves in India

Heat waves are occurring more often and have become more extreme these days. IMD defines a heat wave as an above-normal temperature, i.e., 4.5 degrees Celsius higher than the long-term average. During a heat wave, the temperatures stay at dangerously high levels for many days. This extreme heat can make everyone sick, but it is especially risky for children, older people, those working outdoors, and people with existing health issues. It's vital to understand how dangerous these hot months can be and take steps to stay safe and stay cool.

Watch Out for Heat Illness Warning Signs

When the heat gets intense, our bodies may struggle to cope. You have to identify the warning hints that your body is heating up. Watch out for the below signs,

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Nausea
• Heavy sweating
• Muscle-cramps
• Fainting
• Rapid pulse

Expert Tips for Staying Safe

Stay Hydrated

Drinking lots of fluids is the most important thing when it's very hot outside. Keep a water bottle with you at all times. Ensure to keep sipping water, electrolyte drinks, or fruit juices during the day. Consume food with high water content, like vegetables and fruits. Stay away from drinks with caffeine or alcohol, as they can make dehydration worse.

Dress Wisely

Choose lightweight and loose clothes made from natural fabrics that let your skin breathe freely. When heading outside, bring an umbrella or a small cotton scarf to wear around your neck. Wear a headgear with a wide brim to cover your head and keep it safe. Avoid tight synthetic clothing that traps sweat and heat. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes. Open footwear is better than closed ones on hot days.

Avoid Peak Sun Hours

The sun's rays are the harshest between 11 am and 4 pm. It is when temperatures peak as well. Try to avoid being outdoors during these hours as much as possible. Late evening and morning hours are better for outdoor activities. If you step outside, ensure lots of breaks in shady spots to cool off. Adjust your schedule to minimize heat exposure in the afternoon.

Sunscreen Should Be Your Go-To

Apply a generous amount of sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher whenever you step out of the home. Reapply every 2 hours, especially if sweating. It safeguards your skin from UV rays.

Keep Your Home Cool

Try to stay inside as often as you can. If you do, keep your house cool with air conditioning, fans, or coolers. If there is no AC, keep curtains and windows shut during the day to block out sun rays. Open them at night for cross ventilation. Spend as much time as possible in the coolest areas of your home during peak afternoon hours.

Fun Activities to Beat the Heat

• Play indoor games like board games or jigsaw puzzles.
• Go for a cool swim at an indoor pool.
• Host a movie marathon at home.
• Catch the latest movie at the air-conditioned cinema.
• Explore cool museums, art galleries or exhibitions.
• Read a book while relaxing at a café or ice cream shop.
• Beat the harshness of the sun with some indoor shopping at the mall.
• Have fun bowling or playing video games at an arcade.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are the symptoms of heatstroke and how can I prevent it?

High temperature, confusion, dizziness, rapid pulse, and fainting are common symptoms of heatstroke. To avoid heatstroke, it is advisable to remain indoors when it is hottest outside, remain hydrated, wear light-colored clothes, and refrain from energetic exertion in the sun— specifically during record summer heat.

How can I stay safe during a heatwave in India?

To remain safe in a heatwave, it is recommended to remain indoors, drink a liberal amount of water, avoid stepping out during intense afternoon sun, and also dress lightly. It is especially advisable for children and the aged to take necessary precautions as they fall under the most vulnerable group. Have electrolytes available and rest for a good time.

How much water should I drink daily to stay hydrated in summer?

One should take about 2.5 to 3 liters of water daily, however it is advised to increase the intake if you are sweating excessively, or if you exercise, or work outdoors. While keeping the water intake at par, it is also suggested to include fresh juices, coconut water, and ORS which can enhance the hydration and replace lost salts and minerals.

What are the signs of dehydration in infants and toddlers?

The common signals of dehydration in infants and toddlers include chappy lips, no tears when crying, sunken eyes, fewer wet diapers, irritability, and lethargy. Dehydration in infants can progress rapidly, thus you must feed them fluids often, keep them lightly dressed, and see a doctor if signs increase or don't resolve.

Are there specific foods that help cool the body during heatwaves?

Yes, foods containing water such as cucumbers, melons, oranges, buttermilk, and coconut water cool the body naturally. Curd, mint, and leafy vegetables also hydrate. Devasya Hospital suggests a light, balanced diet in summers to conquer the heat safely.

Conclusion

If too much heat makes you feel sick, don't wait to seek medical help. The multispeciality hospital in Ahmedabad has special facilities to treat people suffering from heat-related sicknesses during hot summers. Remember, extreme heat can be risky to life, especially for children and older people. So watch out for warning signs, carefully follow the expert tips, and immediately go to the Devasya Hospital - best hospitals in Ahmedabad if you or your loved ones feel unwell due to the blazing hot temperatures. So, stay cool, stay safe, and enjoy your summer, knowing you are in good hands!