Рекомендации спасателей по безопасности при жаре

Rescuer recommendations for heat safety

Heat is a state of the atmosphere characterized by a prolonged period of hot air, intensely heated by solar radiation. In meteorology, heat is usually considered an air temperature increase to +35°C and above, or an anomalous deviation from the climatic norm for a specific region by 10°C or more.

The danger lies in human heatstroke, i.e., the threat of an increase in body temperature above 37.1°C, or heat disorder – the body temperature approaching 38.8°C. A critical heat condition occurs with prolonged and/or severe overheating, which can lead to heatstroke or cardiac arrest. Symptoms of overheating include: skin redness, dry mucous membranes, and intense thirst. Subsequently, loss of consciousness, cardiac arrest, and respiratory arrest are possible.

Recommendations for the public during heat:

  • From 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, try to avoid direct sunlight. Wear headwear, use umbrellas, choose light clothing made of natural materials, and be sure to apply sunscreen.
  • Drink plenty of fluids – water, green tea, and kvass are excellent choices, but it is advisable to avoid alcohol during hot weather.
  • Try to reduce car travel. If this is not possible, exercise extreme caution while driving and never leave children unattended in the car.
  • If you are planning to relax by the water, swim only in specially equipped areas. Lifeguards are on duty at such beaches. Swimming independently in unknown or prohibited areas can lead to tragic consequences.
  • Children must always be supervised by adults! Even in shallow water, a child can lose balance and be in danger in just a few seconds. Armbands, vests, and life rings are useful aids, but they cannot replace attentive parental supervision.
  • Swim wisely and do not swim beyond the buoys! Buoys are the safety limit. Beyond them, there may be sudden depth changes, strong currents, watercraft, and other hidden dangers. Even for a good swimmer, sudden fatigue or a change in weather may leave no time to return.
  • Barbecues and bonfires are only allowed in designated areas. Ensure that the barbecue grill is placed safely and do not leave the fire unattended.
  • Going to the forest? Check for current restrictions on forest access in your area using the interactive map of the Ministry of Emergency Situations.

 

Irina Sakovich

Senior Inspector of the Propaganda and Public Relations Sector

of the Novopolotsk City Department for

Emergency Situations