Cops get lessons on beating heat

KOLKATA: Don’t be surprised if you see a barefoot policeman on a city thoroughfare, loosening his belt and sitting quietly in the shade with a wet handkerchief tied to his head. For that is exactly what his bosses have told him to do this summer, when the going gets tough.
Among the worst sufferers in Kolkata’s torrid summer are the 2,200-strong traffic police force who are outdoors throughout the afternoon.Daily special briefings have been planned to warn the force of the rigours of summer. Each day after roll call, officers at the traffic guards will get their men together and impart lessons on how to handle the heat.
Among the tips given to the force are breaks by rotation during afternoon shift. Those resting are instructed to loosen their belts, remove shoes and rest in the shade.
“Men are being asked to control traffic from nearby shady areas, use umbrellas and not drink water from any unhygienic source. We are also encouraging them to carry their own water,� deputy commissioner, traffic, M.K. Singh said.
“Every year, we distribute rehydrating salts at the barracks. This year’s distribution was completed last Tuesday,� Singh said, adding that stocks are requisitioned from the police hospital.
Other plans include telling all constables on duty to tie wet handkerchiefs over their noses and mouth. Masks are not advisable because of the extreme heat and humidity. Besides, it hinders blowing the whistle when on duty. Among the other accessories distributed are dark glasses and umbrellas.