- By Bornika Das
- Tue, 08 Apr 2025 10:25 AM (IST)
- Source:JND
Heatwave In India: With the mercury rising in the country, India is on the verge of experiencing yet another intense heatwave. With April just starting, many parts of North India have seen a surge in temperature, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) warning that it is only going to be hotter in the coming months. Prolonged exposure to the extreme scorching heat of the summer can pose serious health risks, especially among children and the elderly. They are the most vulnerable groups to heat-related illnesses like exhaustion, dehydration, and even heatstroke. Thus, it becomes extremely important to take care of them with summer safety tips.
Why Are Kids And The Elderly At Greater Risk?
Children have underdeveloped temperature regulation systems, making them more susceptible to dehydration. On the other hand, most elderly people have pre-existing health conditions and a reduced ability to sense and respond to heat, thus putting them at higher risk. Moreover, children who are under five years and the elderly who are over 65 years old should be checked frequently. They should be provided with water even if they don’t feel thirsty. Incorporate hydrating fruits like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges into their diet. Both kids and seniors should be taken utmost care of, making their survival through the heatwave in the summer easier. Here’s a list of six summer heatwave precautionary tips for children and the elderly.
Guide To Keep Kids And The Elderly Safe In Summer Heatwave
Hydration Is The Key
It is important to keep the children and the seniors hydrated with the consumption of water, coconut water and electrolyte-rich drinks during the summer intervals. They should take in water at regular intervals and avoid caffeinated and sugary beverages.
Right Clothes
Summer season demands lightweight, loose-fitting clothes that are in light colours. These right choices of clothes will allow the body to breathe and stay cool. Avoid wearing tight-fitting, dark-coloured clothes as they can make the kids and elderly uncomfortable during the summer.
Avoid Outdoor Activities
Do not engage in outdoor activities during the peak summer heat, that is, between 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Schedule playtime or errands during the cooling hours of the day.
Hydration Is Important For Kids And Seniors During Summer (Image Credits: Canva)
Cool Home Environment
As children and the elderly tend to spend most of their time at home, it is important to keep the home cool. Use curtains, blinds or reflective window panels to block the direct sunlight from entering the home. Switch on fans or ACs as needed. Sponging with cool water helps to keep the home cool, too.
Never Leave Anyone In Parked Car
Temperature can soar rapidly inside vehicles, even if the windows are cracked. Do not leave the kids and the elderly inside the parked car while you visit any place. Leaving them alone in parked cars can increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Monitor For Symptoms
Look for symptoms in adults like excessive thirst, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, or dry skin. If you witness such signs, provide immediate cooling and hydration.
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(Disclaimer: This content, including suggestions and advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information before making any drastic changes in your lifestyle.)