Workers should be given access to cool drinking water and shaded rest areas at their job sites, as per the advisory.It also encouraged the creation of temporary shelters and the adoption of a “buddy system”, where workers look out for one another and report early signs of heat-related illnesses.The authorities have been instructed to make arrangements for oral rehydration points at workplaces and ensure that the staff remain well-hydrated by consuming water every 20 minutes.Also, awareness campaigns are being pushed to educate people about the preventive measures and early warning signs of heat-related illnesses.The advisory also said that workplaces should consider reducing the pace of physically demanding tasks or increasing the number of workers to reduce individual workload during periods of extreme heat.Pregnant women and those with existing medical conditions have been asked to consult their doctors before continuing any outdoor acting during heatwave conditions.Those living in urban slums and poorly-ventilated homes have been urged to take additional care, with focus on maintaining cleanliness, hydration and proper ventilation.The government has emphasised that high-protein and spicy foods, as well as beverages like tea, coffee, alcohol and carbonated drinks, should be avoided, as they can contribute to dehydration.Instead, consumption of homemade drinks such as lemon water and buttermilk has been recommended.People have also been advised not to leave children or elderly individuals inside parked cars, as the temperature inside vehicles can rise rapidly and pose serious health risks.To raise public awareness, the advisory has proposed to instal digital information boards displaying real-time temperature updates and health tips.The advisory concluded with a strong emphasis on preparedness at the community and institutional levels, calling for training programmes, emergency planning in health centres, and coordination between various departments to minimise health impacts as the country braces for an extended period of extreme heat.
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