How Can School Going Students Protect Themselves From Heatwave?

Stay Hydrated: Ensure children drink 2-3 litres of water daily; offer bel, khus sharbat, coconut water, or lemon water.

Limit Outdoor Time: Keep children indoors between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.; encourage outdoor play after sunset.

Avoid sugary and aerated drinks. Opt for healthier drink options to keep children hydrated.

Use Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen (SPF 15–30+) to children’s exposed skin before outdoor activities.

Wear hats: Use hats and umbrellas to shield from direct sun exposure.

Dress Lightly: Dress children in light-coloured, cotton clothing to keep them cool and prevent skin rashes.

Promote Healthy Eating: Include light, fresh meals, seasonal fruits, and leafy vegetables in their diet.

Watch for Dehydration Signs: Be alert for symptoms like palpitations, lethargy, dizziness, and weakness.

Recognise Heatstroke Symptoms: Know the signs such as hot, dry, reddish skin, paleness, muscle cramps, fatigue, dizziness, headache, nausea, and vomiting.

Seek Medical Help: If symptoms of dehydration or heatstroke appear, seek medical help immediately.

Inputs By: Dr. Prashant Sinha, Head- Emergency, PSRI Hospital, New Delhi