Election In Times Of Weather Extremity: Election Commission Issues Heatwave Advisory Before Lok Sabha Elections 2024

With the Lok Sabha elections 2024 set to be held from April 19 to June 1, right when the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has announced a possible heatwave, the Election Commission is taking precautions by releasing an advisory on the prevention of heatwave.

This demonstrates the direct impact of climate change on everyday living.

Measures to reduce impact during heat stroke

BCCL

To minimise impact during heat stroke, EC recommends the following measures:

? Avoid going out in the sun, especially between 12.00 noon and 3.00 p.m.

Drink sufficient water and as often as possible, even if not thirsty

? Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose, and porous cotton clothes. Use protective goggles, umbrella/hat, shoes or chappals while going out in sun.

? Avoid strenuous activities when the outside temperature is high. Avoid working outside between 12 noon and 3 p.m.

? While travelling, carry water with you.

? Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee and carbonated soft drinks, which dehydrates the body.

? Avoid high-protein food and do not eat stale food.

? If you work outside, use a hat or an umbrella and also use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face and limbs

? Do not leave children or pets in parked vehicles

? If you feel faint or ill, see a doctor immediately.

? Use ORS, homemade drinks like lassi, torani (rice water), lemon water, buttermilk, etc. which helps to re-hydrate the body.

? Keep animals in shade and give them plenty of water to drink.

? Keep your home cool, use curtains, shutters or sunshade and open windows at night.

? Use fans, damp clothing and take bath in cold water frequently.

Tips for treatment of a person affected by sunstroke

Reuters

The following are the tips suggested by EC:

? Lay the person in a cool place, under a shade. Wipe her/him with a wet cloth/wash the body frequently. Pour normal temperature water on the head. The main thing is to bring down the body temperature.

? Give the person ORS to drink or lemon sarbat/torani or whatever is useful to rehydrate the body.

? Take the person immediately to the nearest health centre. The patient needs immediate hospitalisation, as heat strokes could be fatal.

For more news and current affairs from around the world, please visit Indiatimes News.