Gautam Buddh Nagar District Magistrate Medha Rupam has issued a public advisory urging residents to take precautionary measures against the severe cold. She advised that when using coal braziers (angithi), earthen stoves (chulha), heaters or blowers, people must ensure proper ventilation to prevent the accumulation of poisonous gas or smoke. Residents have also been cautioned against wearing wet clothes and instructed to keep themselves dry.
The DM said that during extreme cold, those without adequate heating arrangements at home should move to community centres or designated shelters. People have been advised to wear multiple layers of warm clothing, including woollens, sweaters, caps and scarves, and consume nutritious food and hot drinks to maintain body heat. Exposure to sunlight whenever available can also help reduce the effects of the cold wave.
Rupam highlighted the symptoms of hypothermia, such as unusually low body temperature, confusion, memory loss, unconsciousness, disorientation, excessive shivering, fatigue and slurred speech, and urged residents to immediately contact the nearest hospital if these signs appear. For frostbite symptoms, including numbness or white and yellow patches on the fingers, toes, ears or nose, medical attention is also advised.
The District Magistrate further directed to cover the windows and doors of enclosures for pets and birds be properly insulated, while ensuring adequate ventilation. She appealed to the public to help the destitute, elderly, disabled, ill and mentally challenged individuals obtain free blankets through the local Lekhpal and Tehsil administration.
What To Do During A Cold Wave
* Stay indoors as much as possible
* Travel as little as possible
* Wear loose-fitting woollen clothes rather than one layer of heavy clothing
* Tight clothes reduce blood flow
* Cover your head, neck, hands and toes adequately
* Eat fruits and vegetables rich in Vitamin C
* Massage the body with oil, petroleum jelly or body cream
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Sources for accurate weather information
* Local radio
* Daily newspapers
* TV
* Mobile phone