Heatwave alert in Mumbai: Do's and don'ts we must follow during extreme weather conditions

The Indian Meteorological Department IMD has issued a yellow warning for heatwave in Maharashtrarsquos Konkan region including Mumbai Thane and surrounding districts due to the rising temperatures on Tuesday and WednesdayAs per IMDrsquos 24hour forecast daytime temperatures are expected to rise to around 38degC on Wednesday At 384 degrees the IMD Santacruzs maximum temperature was 64 degrees above normal on MondayIn March IMD predicts temperatures to soar further by one or two degrees Sunil Kamble the director of India Meteorological Department Mumbai said Global temperatures are already increasing and the impact is that we are seeing higher temperature every month I mean we have accepted that globe temperature has increased by one degree so every month the seasonal patterns are changing and we are getting the temperature at the higher side by one or two degree in every month he addedKamble advises Avoid going out between 12pm3pm at least so that the impact can be reduced You can do whatever is required after 4pm so that that the impact will not be on youTo help you stay safe during these extreme conditions here are some important Dos and DonrsquotsDosStay hydrated Drink plenty of water throughout the day even if you donrsquot feel thirstyConsume hydrating drinks In addition to water consider drinks like ORS Oral Rehydration Solution homemade lassi rice water torani lemon water buttermilk and coconut waterWear appropriate clothing Go for lightweight lightcoloured loosefitting cotton clothes to stay coolProtect yourself from the sun If you need to be outside cover your head with a cloth hat or umbrella Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and apply sunscreen to safeguard your skinVulnerable groups The elderly children sick individuals and those who are overweight are more susceptible to heatrelated issues Ensure they are wellProvide cool water at work Make sure there is access to cool drinking water at your workplaceConsult a doctor if necessary People with epilepsy or those suffering from heart kidney or liver conditionsmdashespecially those on fluidrestricted dietsmdashshould consult a doctor before increasing their liquid intakeStay indoors Try to limit your time outdoors as much as possibleUse traditional remedies Consider consuming onion salad or raw mango with salt and cumin which may help prevent heatstrokeCool off regularly Use fans damp cloths or take cold baths to stay comfortableSeek medical attention If you experience dizziness fatigue or other symptoms seek medical attention immediatelyHelp heatstroke victims If someone shows signs of heatstroke apply a wet cloth or pour cool water over their head to provide reliefDonrsquotsAvoid the sun during afternoons Stay indoors between 1200 PM and 300 PM when the sunrsquos intensity is at its highestLimit physical exertion Avoid strenuous outdoor activities especially in the afternoon heatDonrsquot walk barefoot Protect your feet from the hot groundAvoid cooking during peak heat Try not to cook during the hottest part of the day Ensure proper ventilation in cooking areas by opening doors and windowsBe careful with food choices Avoid highprotein salty spicy and oily foods Also steer clear of stale foodNever leave children or pets in vehicles Never leave children or pets alone in parked cars as they can quickly overheatMinimize heatgenerating appliances Avoid using incandescent light bulbs which generate unnecessary heat as well as computers or other heatproducing appliances during peak temperatures