The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that temperatures in Kerala are expected to rise by 2 to 3 degrees Celsius above normal, creating uncomfortably warm and humid conditions across the state. As the heatwave intensifies, the Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has issued a public advisory urging people to take necessary precautions to avoid heat-related illnesses such as heatstroke, dehydration, and heat exhaustion.
The government has outlined specific measures to minimize health risks and prevent fire hazards during the extreme weather conditions:
Precautionary Measures for the Public:
- Avoid direct exposure to the sun between 11 AM and 3 PM.
- Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of clean water, even if you don’t feel thirsty.
- Refrain from consuming alcohol, coffee, tea, and carbonated drinks during the day, as they may cause dehydration.
- Wear light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothes to stay cool.
- Always wear footwear when stepping outside and consider using an umbrella or hat for shade.
- Consume hydrating foods such as fruits, vegetables, buttermilk, and Oral Rehydration Solution (ORS).
Fire Safety and Environmental Concerns:
- The risk of fire outbreaks is high in markets, waste disposal sites, and buildings. Authorities are urged to conduct fire safety audits and take necessary precautions.
- Increased temperatures heighten the chances of wildfires, especially near forested areas. Tourists and residents must follow Forest Department guidelines to prevent fire incidents.
Precautions for Schools and Workplaces:
- Schools and educational institutions must ensure access to clean drinking water and proper ventilation. During exams, students should have sufficient water in exam halls.
- Outdoor assemblies and excursions should be scheduled carefully to avoid peak heat hours.
- Panchayat authorities and Anganwadi centers must take steps to protect young children from excessive heat exposure.
- Elderly individuals, pregnant women, young children, and people with disabilities should stay indoors during the hottest part of the day.
Workforce and Public Event Guidelines:
- Companies employing delivery personnel on two-wheelers should provide them with protective clothing and allow short breaks during peak heat hours.
- Police officers and journalists should use umbrellas and have access to drinking water while working outdoors.
- Public events and conferences should be organized in shaded areas, and participants must have access to water to prevent dehydration.
- Travelers must ensure they carry enough water and take breaks during long journeys to avoid exhaustion.
With the rising temperatures and extreme humidity, authorities are urging the public to stay vigilant and follow the recommended safety measures to protect themselves from the scorching heat.
