Varanasi issues heatwave safety instructions amid rising temperatures

Varanasi: In view of rising temperatures, District Magistrate Satyendra Kumar on Saturday issued instructions to concerned departments on how to protect oneself from severe heat, hot winds and heatwave, and how to stay safe.

According to IMD, the city recorded 41.3 degrees Celsius on Saturday. The heat will persist from Sunday through the coming week, and the moisture level in the atmosphere will continue to decrease. On Saturday morning, the effect of hot winds was felt from early morning itself.

The DM advised people to cover windows with reflectors such as aluminium foil, cardboard, to prevent outside heat from entering, listen to local weather forecasts and remain alert to upcoming temperature changes. He appealed to them to get trained in first aid to deal with emergencies, never leave children or pets alone in a closed vehicle, stay indoors as much as possible and avoid direct sunlight. To avoid direct sunlight, stay on the lower floors of the house as much as possible. Eat balanced, light and regular meals; never consume stale food and avoid alcoholic beverages. When going outside, cover body and head with cloth or a hat.

During summer, body fluids begin to dry up. The risk of heatstroke increases when the body is deficient in water and salt. People with alcohol addiction, heart disease, chronic illness, obesity, Parkinson's disease, advanced age and uncontrolled diabetes need special protection from heatwave. Additionally, individuals using diuretics, antihistamines and psychiatric medications should also remain cautious about heatwave.