People urged to take precautions as temperatures rise

With temperatures soaring across the district, health authorities have issued a public advisory urging residents to exercise extreme caution to prevent sunstroke and heat-related illnesses.

District Medical Officer (Health) Dr. T.P. Sreedevi has warned that rising temperatures significantly increase the risk of sunstroke and heat burns. She stressed that self-protection is crucial to avoid physical distress caused by excessive heat.

People engaged in outdoor work are advised to reschedule duties to avoid direct sun exposure, particularly between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Those who must step out should use umbrellas, hats or towels for protection and wear footwear at all times. Children and elderly persons should never be left inside parked vehicles, she cautioned.

Light-coloured cotton clothing is recommended, and people should frequently wash their hands, face and feet with clean water to stay cool. Special care must be taken for young children, the elderly, pregnant women and individuals suffering from illness or fatigue.

The health department emphasised the importance of staying hydrated. People should drink clean water at regular intervals, even if they do not feel thirsty, as dehydration can occur quickly in high temperatures. Fluid intake should increase depending on physical activity and sweating. Buttermilk, tender coconut water and lemon juice are recommended, provided they are prepared and stored hygienically. Ice used in juices must be made from safe drinking water.

The consumption of alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks should be limited. Fruits and vegetables with high water content can help maintain hydration if washed properly before use.

Dr. Sreedevi listed warning signs of sunstroke and heat-related illness, including very high body temperature, dry and red skin, severe headache, dizziness, slow pulse, altered mental state, unconsciousness, skin redness or blisters, muscle cramps, nausea, vomiting and reduced, dark-coloured urine. Immediate medical attention should be sought if any of these symptoms appear, she said.