The Ministry of Health is issuing recommendations to the public on how to protect themselves from high temperatures.

In a statement, the Ministry notes that during the summer months, taking precautions against high temperatures is particularly important, especially when temperatures exceed 40°C.

Therefore, the Ministry of Health recommends that the public check the Meteorological Service daily for forecasts and official heat wave warnings and, as much as possible, in cool, shaded, or air-conditioned areas.

It also recommends keeping homes cool by using shades, natural ventilation during the evening hours, or air conditioning where available, as well as avoiding prolonged exposure to the sun, especially between 11:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m.

It also urges the public to avoid strenuous physical work or exercise during the hottest hours of the day and to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, even when you do not feel thirsty, unless your doctor has given you different instructions.

The public is also urged to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol and beverages high in caffeine and to opt for light, frequent meals, with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables.

It is also recommended to wear light, comfortable, and light-colored clothing made of natural materials, as well as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen. It is also important to maintain regular contact with elderly relatives, neighbors, or people who live alone or are unable to care for themselves.

Citizens are urged to protect infants and young children from the heat by dressing them in light clothing and never leaving infants, children, the elderly, or pets inside a parked vehicle, even for just a few minutes.

Regarding food safety during heat waves, the public is urged to keep food in the refrigerator at the proper temperatures, avoid consuming food that has been left out of the refrigerator for a long time, and strictly follow hygiene rules when preparing, cooking, and storing food.

The announcement notes that the first symptoms of heatstroke may include a severe headache, dry mouth, and intense thirst; weakness or extreme fatigue; dizziness or a feeling of faintness, profuse sweating with cold, clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, and a rapid heartbeat or rapid breathing.

It should be noted that heatstroke is a medical emergency and a life-threatening condition that requires immediate medical attention.

If someone exhibits symptoms of heat exhaustion, they should be taken immediately to a cool or shaded area and given water, provided they are conscious.

If the symptoms do not subside, worsen, or if heatstroke is suspected, the public should immediately call 112 or contact their personal physician. “Until medical help arrives, continue efforts to cool the person down (lower their body temperature),” states the Ministry of Health.

Source: KYPE