Deputy Commissioner Jalandhar, Varjeet Walia, has appealed to residents to strictly follow the special health advisory issued by the Health Department in view of the ‘heat wave’ conditions likely to continue across Punjab till May 24, as predicted by the Meteorological Department.
The Deputy Commissioner said that people can protect themselves from heatwave-related illnesses by taking proper precautions. He warned that extreme heat and hot winds can seriously affect human health, especially during peak afternoon hours.
He advised citizens to avoid stepping out unnecessarily during the afternoon. If going outside is unavoidable, people should cover their heads properly and prefer wearing light-coloured cotton clothes.
He further said that umbrellas, caps, towels, turbans or dupattas should be used to protect the head from direct sunlight, and people should avoid walking barefoot under the sun. Those working outdoors should take regular breaks in shaded areas and keep a wet cloth or towel on their heads to maintain body temperature.
The Deputy Commissioner also urged residents to immediately contact the nearest health centre if symptoms of heat stroke appear. To prevent dehydration, he advised people to drink plenty of water and fluids.
He recommended consuming seasonal fruits and vegetables rich in water content, including watermelon, muskmelon, grapes, cucumber, tomato, bottle gourd and ridge gourd.
He also encouraged people to regularly consume ORS, lemon water, lassi, coconut water and other fluids to stay hydrated during the intense summer heat.
Meanwhile, the Deputy Commissioner directed the Health Department to ensure all necessary arrangements at government health centres across the district for immediate treatment of heat-related illnesses. He instructed officials to maintain adequate stocks of ORS and essential medicines at all healthcare facilities.
