Una, May 20: Dr. Sanjeev Kumar Verma, Chief Medical Officer (CMO) of Una, has issued an advisory regarding precautions against rising temperatures and heatstroke in the Una district. He stated that temperatures are rising due to forest fires. Consequently, heatstroke can prove fatal; therefore, it is absolutely essential to take necessary precautions to protect oneself from heatstroke, sunstroke, and the general effects of the heat.

**Safety Measures**
The CMO advised drinking plenty of water during the summer season, even if you do not feel thirsty. Always carry water with you whenever you travel. Use ORS (Oral Rehydration Salts), and regularly consume lemon water, lassi, etc., to prevent dehydration in the body. Wear light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothing. When stepping out in the sun, use an umbrella, a towel, or a cap to cover your head. Ensure you wear shoes or slippers when venturing out in the sun. During the day, keep windows in sun-facing rooms closed and keep curtains drawn; however, keep windows open at night to ensure proper ventilation. Maintain a cool and safe indoor environment. Splash yourself with cool water, use electric fans, and stay updated on weather conditions through radio, television, and newspapers.

**What Not to Do**
He advised against stepping outdoors unless absolutely necessary, particularly between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM. Avoid strenuous physical activities or exercises. Refrain from consuming alcohol, tea, coffee, excessively sugary beverages, cold drinks, or carbonated drinks. Do not allow children to play outdoors in the sun. Avoid eating stale food. Refrain from cooking meals during the hottest hours of the day. Never leave children or pets unattended inside a vehicle parked in the sun. Stay Alert to Symptoms
Dr. Verma stated that it is absolutely essential to take precautions to prevent heatstroke and sunstroke, particularly in light of symptoms such as severe headache, a body temperature reaching 104 degrees Fahrenheit, nausea and vomiting, restlessness, dizziness, fainting, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and hot, red, and dry skin.
Furthermore, in the event of heat exhaustion or sunstroke, immediate first aid measures include moving the patient indoors or into the shade at once; laying them down with their legs slightly elevated; increasing airflow using a fan; wiping the body with a wet cloth or spraying it with water; refraining from giving anything to eat or drink if the patient is unconscious; offering cool water or fluids once consciousness is regained; positioning the patient on their side if vomiting occurs while unconscious; and visiting the nearest health center or calling an ambulance in cases of severe symptoms. Additionally, young children, pregnant women, individuals working outdoors, and those with mental health conditions or disabilities must exercise extra caution during the summer season.