Chandigarh – As Haryana grapples with intense heatwave conditions, the state government has issued an urgent call for residents to remain vigilant and take proactive measures to safeguard themselves, their families, and livestock from the extreme heat. Financial Commissioner, Revenue and Disaster Management Dr. Sumita Misra, has directed Deputy Commissioners to actively promote heatwave do's and don'ts within their districts and ensure adequate measures are in place to mitigate the ill effects on humans and livestock.
These measures include providing sufficient drinking water in public places, launching intensive public outreach on heatwave precautions, ensuring adequate medical supplies for heatstroke patients up to the PHC level, and releasing advisories regarding working hours for manual laborers, hawkers, vendors, and rickshaw pullers during peak heatwave hours. To minimize the impact and prevent serious illness or fatalities due to heatstroke, Dr. Misra urged the public to adhere to a comprehensive set of do's and don'ts.
To effectively combat dehydration, all Primary Health Centers (PHCs) and Community Health Centers (CHCs) have been directed to remain fully equipped with adequate saline solution and sufficient beds. Citizens are advised to drink sufficient water, even if not thirsty, and to carry water when travelling. Wearing lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting, and porous cotton clothes is recommended, along with using protective gear such as sunglasses, umbrellas, turbans/scarves, hats, shoes, or chappals when outdoors. For those working outside, it's advised to use a hat or umbrella and apply a damp cloth to the head, neck, face, and limbs. Rehydration is crucial, and the use of ORS (oral rehydration solution) and homemade drinks like lassi, lemon water, and buttermilk is encouraged.
Dr. Misra also highlighted the importance of recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses such as weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating, and seizures, urging individuals to seek immediate medical attention if they feel faint or ill. Protecting vulnerable populations is a priority, so it is advised keeping animals in the shade with plenty of water, ensuring homes are kept cool by using curtains, shutters, or sunshades during the day. Pregnant women workers and those with medical conditions require additional attention.
Dr. Misra strongly cautioned against certain activities during the heatwave. "Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles under any circumstances, " she stressed. People should avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12:00 noon and 3:00 p.m., and refrain from strenuous activities when outside temperatures are high. Furthermore, it is advised against cooking during peak hours and recommended adequately ventilating cooking areas. Alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated soft drinks should be avoided, as they dehydrate the body.
"The best defense against extreme heat is to be prepared, " Dr. Misra said, urging citizens to prepare their homes, workplaces, and communities, know the symptoms of heat-related illness, and check on vulnerable individuals such as children, elderly family members, homebound neighbours, and outdoor workers during extreme heat events. Additionally, Dr. Misra stated that working hours should be rescheduled to avoid peak heat times to protect workers' health and enhance productivity. The Labour Department is also directed to coordinate with the Health Department to organize health camps, especially in informal sectors and settlements, and ensure emergency medical aid is readily available at work sites to address heat-related illnesses.