Stay safe from the heat as mercury soars in UAE

Authorities urged people to be mindful of the hot weather and issued guidelines and awareness to avoid suffering a heatstroke.

By Web Report

Published: Sat 27 Jun 2020, 9:59 AM

Last updated: Sat 27 Jun 2020, 12:04 PM

With the mercury hovering over 40 degrees Celsius, the risk of developing a heatstroke increases substantially, especially, if care is not taken.
Heatstroke is caused when the body overheats. It can turn fatal as it can damage the brain, heart, kidneys and muscles, and hence care should be taken whilst venturing out in the heat.
The Dubai Health Authority and Dubai Municipality urged people to be mindful of the hot weather and issued guidelines and awareness to avoid suffering a heatstroke.

Do you know that overexposure to the sun can result in heat stress? Make sure you safely enjoy summer by learning about heat stress and how to deal with it. Check the technical guidelines and awareness publications available on #DubaiMunicipality's website.#We_Are_All_Responsible pic.twitter.com/iartyDaf0J
- ????? ??? | Dubai Municipality (@DMunicipality) June 25, 2020

The Dubai Municipality tweeted that people are advised to avoid direct exposure to sunlight during midday and issued guidelines to avoid heatstroke.
While the DHA tweeted that children, elderly and outside workers are more at risk to suffer a heatstroke, and people should pay heed to heatstroke symptoms.

#HeatStroke: Symptoms, first aid and Treatment#Sunstroke #we_are_all_responsible pic.twitter.com/ZAUndO6Pfl
- ???? ????? ???? (@DHA_Dubai) June 25, 2020

How to avoid heatstroke
1. Regularly drink water to avoid dehydration.
2. Don't overwork if the temperature is high.
3. Make sure to moisturize and cool your body and be fully aware of emergency procedures.
4. Practice healthy eating habits that reduce stress.
5. Use sunscreen to avoid skin damage and heat stress.
6. Wear loose-fitting lightweight clothes.
7. Take frequent rest in the shade.
8. Avoid going out in the hottest part of the day. 9. Never leave someone in a car, especially children.
Heatstroke symptoms
1. High body temperature
2. Not sweating
3. Nausea and vomiting
4. Flushed skin
5. Rapid breathing
6. Racing heart rate
7. Headache
If you or someone around you is experiencing one or more symptoms they should be given heatstroke first-aid in order to avoid falling seriously ill.
Heatstroke first aid
1. Lie down in the shade
2. Sip water
3. Remove outer clothing
4. Cool with damp cloth especially the head and neck.