Ludhiana, May 22 (Rajkumar Sathi). Dr. Ramandeep Kaur, Civil Surgeon, Ludhiana, has issued an advisory for all citizens regarding health protection in view of the rising heatwave in the district. High temperatures can be quite dangerous, especially for children, the elderly, pregnant women, and individuals suffering from chronic illnesses. It’s crucial to take timely steps to prevent heat-related illnesses such as heat exhaustion, heat cramps (muscle spasms due to heat), and heatstroke.
#Current Situation and Forecast:
According to the Meteorological Department, the heatwave continues in several parts of Punjab, including Ludhiana, and no significant change in temperature is expected for the next few days. Temperatures above 44 degrees Celsius have been recorded in districts like Bathinda. However, some relief is possible from May 23, 2025, with a chance of light rain and strong winds in some districts.
### What to Do:
* *Stay Hydrated:* Drink plenty of water, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Don’t let your body become dehydrated. Individuals with epilepsy, heart disease, kidney, or liver conditions should consult their doctor before increasing their water intake.
* *Consume Liquids:* Increase your intake of homemade beverages like lemon water, lassi, coconut water, ORS solution, and fruit juices.
* *Stay Indoors:* Avoid going out between 11 AM and 4 PM unless absolutely necessary, as this is the hottest part of the day. Schedule outdoor activities for the morning or evening.
* *Wear Light Clothing:* Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting, and cotton clothing.
* *Cover Your Head:* When outdoors, always use an umbrella, hat, cap, towel, turban, or any other cloth to cover your head. Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes.
* *Eat Hydrating Foods:* Consume water-rich fruits and vegetables like cucumber, watermelon, musk melon, orange, grapes, pineapple, and tomatoes. Eat small, frequent meals.
* *Keep Cool:* Take cold showers. To keep your home cool, keep curtains closed during the day and open windows at night for airflow. Putting straw on rooftops or growing vegetables can also help reduce indoor temperatures.
* *Look Out for Others:* Keep an eye on the health of children, the elderly, pregnant women, and vulnerable individuals. If someone delivers items or food to your home or office, offer them water.
* *Stay in Open and Ventilated Areas:* Ensure proper ventilation, especially in cooking areas.
* *Advice for Farmers:* Irrigate crops as needed, keep livestock in the shade, and provide them with clean, cool water for drinking.
### What Not to Do:
* *Avoid Direct Sun Exposure:* Don’t stay in direct sunlight for extended periods. Avoid going barefoot outdoors.
* *Strenuous Physical Activity:* Avoid strenuous physical activities during hot weather, such as playing sports or having PT periods in the afternoon. If exercising, start slowly.
* *Tight or Dark Clothing:* Do not wear tight or dark-colored clothing.
* *Alcohol and Caffeine:* Avoid consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, and overly sweet carbonated drinks (cold drinks), as they can lead to dehydration.
* *Stale Food:* Steer clear of stale or fried foods.
* *Leaving Children or Pets:* Never leave children, the elderly, or pets alone in a parked vehicle.
### Pay Attention to Heat Stress Symptoms:
Do not ignore any symptoms such as weakness, lethargy, headache, dizziness, cessation of sweating, nausea, restlessness, rapid breathing, or muscle cramps. If you experience any such symptoms, immediately contact your nearest health center or doctor.
### Contact in Case of Emergency:
* *Ambulance:* Dial 108 (Free Emergency Medical Response Service)
* *Helpline:* 104 (Toll-free Medical Helpline by the Government of Punjab for public health information / complaints / advice)
* *Civil Surgeon Office, Ludhiana:* 0161-2444193
Your health is our priority. Stay safe and avoid the heat.