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During a Heatwave
- Stay indoors between 11am and 4pm when heat is most intense
- Drink water frequently - do NOT wait until you feel thirsty
- Use ORS (Oral Rehydration Solution): mix salt + sugar + water, or use ORS packets
- Wear loose, light-colored cotton clothing
- Use a wet cloth on your head and neck to stay cool
- Avoid direct sun exposure - use an umbrella or hat when outdoors
- Eat light meals - avoid heavy, spicy, and oily food
- Drink buttermilk (chaas), lemon water (nimbu pani), or coconut water
- Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks - they cause dehydration
- Keep windows covered with wet cloth or curtains during peak heat
- Use fans and coolers - splash water on the floor for natural cooling
Heat Stroke Warning Signs
- Body temperature above 40°C (104°F)
- No sweating despite the heat - skin is hot and dry
- Confusion, disorientation, or unconsciousness
- Rapid pulse and rapid breathing
- Severe headache, nausea, or vomiting
- THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY - call 108 immediately
- While waiting for ambulance: move person to shade, remove excess clothing, cool with wet sheets and fan
- Do NOT give water if person is unconscious
- Apply ice packs to neck, armpits, and groin for rapid cooling
Protecting Vulnerable People
- Check on elderly neighbors and relatives regularly
- NEVER leave children or animals in parked vehicles - temperature inside can reach 70°C
- Outdoor workers (construction, farming, delivery) must take frequent breaks in shade
- Ensure elderly people and children drink water even if they do not ask
- Reschedule outdoor work and exercise to early morning or evening
- Schools should ensure children have access to water and shade during recess
- Monitor infants for signs of dehydration: dry mouth, no tears, fewer wet diapers
Emergency Actions
Call 108 for heat stroke medical emergency
Call 112 for national emergency
Call 1070 for disaster helpline
India-Specific Notes
Heatwave season: April-June. Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh are most affected. IMD declares a heatwave when plains temperature exceeds 40°C or is 4.5°C above normal. For hill stations, heatwave is declared at 30°C or above. India has seen increasing heatwave frequency and intensity due to climate change.
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