Stay indoors and stay hydrated is the only way to stay safe as the intense heatwave continues to pull the mercury upwards in Kolkata and south Bengal.
The mercury crossed 42 degrees Celsius on Tuesday. The India Meteorological Department has predicted that the heatwave condition is likely to continue in West Bengal till May 3 and issued a set of precautionary guidelines to avert heatstroke.
Possible impact and precautions
Avoid prolonged exposure to heat: It is advisable to keep away from direct sunlight for a prolonged period. If you work outdoors, make sure to take shelter under the shade and rest at intervals. If possible, do not head out between 11am and 4pm. There is a likelihood of heat illness symptoms in people who are either exposed to sun for a prolonged period or doing heavy work. There is also a very high health concern for vulnerable people e.g. infants, elderly, people with chronic diseases. Heat cramps and heat rash are also very likely.
Dress comfortably: Wear light-weight, light-coloured and loose cotton clothes. Cover your head using a cloth, hat or umbrella. Make sure to apply sunscreens with SPF 50+ and re-apply it every two hours for best results. Follow a summer skincare routine. Protect your eyes with sunglasses.
Keep hydrated: Drink sufficient water even if not thirsty to avoid dehydration. Sip ORS, homemade drinks such as lassi, torani (rice water), lemonade, buttermilk, fresh fruit juices etc. which help to re-hydrate the body. Include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet in the form of salads. Avoid rich and oily food as much as possible. Eat light, homemade food. Carry your own water bottle if you are heading out. Avoid drinking aerated drinks.
Managing heat-related illness: There is a high likelihood for heat-related illnesses and possibility of heat strokes for red-warning districts. Recognise the signs of heat stroke, heat rash or heat cramps such as weakness, dizziness, headache, nausea, sweating and seizures. If you faint or feel ill, see a doctor/ hospital immediately. Elderly and infants are more prone to falling ill and must be taken care of.
Be a good Samaritan: It is also necessary to take care of our service providers during this time. If possible, assist your domestic help with change in their duty hours. Offer them water and summer drinks. Make sure your guards and caretakers have shelter over their head. Provide them with fans, hydrating drinks, umbrellas, caps etc. Plan your online orders to avoid using quick delivery apps between 11am and 4pm. Offer water to delivery persons.
Care for the animals and birds: Keep water in clay pots outside your home, terrace and window sills for the animals and birds. Place the pot in an accessible area and preferably under a shade. Remember to change the water every day. For house pets, try to keep them in a cool or air-conditioned room. Take them for a walk early in the morning or after sunset. Give them a bath once a week or as advised by your veterinarian.
Care for plants: The value of greens cannot be felt more! If you have plants, they will need to be taken care of as well. Overwatering or overexposure to heat might also be harmful. Read more about plant care during heatwave here.