Secretary-General, PMA Centre, Dr S M Qaisar Sajjad, in his statement, stated that the Met office forecasted a heat-wave likely to grip Karachi and other coastal areas of Sindh during which the maximum day temperature is expected to range from 40-42 degree Celsius. During this scorching heat, people are requested to adopt the following preventive measures to protect themselves from the heat-wave.
He urged the people to avoid going out unnecessarily during the day between 11:00 am to 4:00 pm. If it is necessary to go out, make it sure that you do not stay longer in sunlight. Cover the head with a cap or wet cloth. Do not go out barefoot and instead wear light shoes. Do not indulge in outdoor sports and wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing.
He stated that children and older adults should be more careful during the heat-wave because they are more prone to its effects owing to low immunity. Eat light home-cooked meals. Stay indoors, however, if going out is unavoidable, then drink more water. Always use boiled water. The government should strictly ask the K- Electric to avoid load-shedding during these days while the KWSB should not impede the water supply at any time.
He explained that the symptoms of a heat-stroke include itching, weakness, headache, rapid pulse, low blood pressure, nausea & vomiting, muscular pains, and unconsciousness.
On encountering any heat stroke affected individuals, Dr Qaisar Sajjad urged the rescue workers to move the affected person to a shady place and make sure that he/she is breathing well. Give them clean drinking water but in case of unconsciousness, do not put water or any edible into the mouth. Cool the person's entire body by sponging or spraying cold water, monitor the pulse and blood pressure of the patient, and shift the patient to a hospital urgently.