Given the heat wave that the Uruguayan Institute of Meteorology issued for the days between December 5 and 8, the National Emergency System (Sinae) launched recommendations to the population to achieve the best possible transit.
According to the agency, when temperatures rise, the recommended thing to do is: “Stay informed about forecasts, weather conditions and warnings from the authorities” and take special precautions with the most vulnerable people such as those under 6 years of age, those over 65, people who perform tasks outdoors, those who suffer from certain diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, obesity, alcoholism and disabled people.
In turn, it suggestsavoid being outdoors between 11 a.m. and 6 p.m.” and “avoid the permanence of people and pets in the vehicle when it is parked”.
Regarding fluid intake, the Sinae recommends drinking plenty of water, even if you are not thirsty Y do not consume alcoholic beverages. On the nutritional side, he suggests avoiding large and hot meals, eating fruits and vegetables in small and frequent portions, and keep food refrigerated.
In addition, as clothing recommendations, he proposes “wear a hat, light clothing, light shoes, sunglasses with a filter, and sunscreen factor 30 or more”.
Excess heat and heat stroke
The Sinae also recommends what to do in two situations that can occur, such as excessive heat and heat stroke. Excess heat, according to the organism, is “the situation caused by abnormal heating of the body in a relatively short period of time”.
Symptoms are cramps, exhaustion, headache, nausea and vomiting, dehydration, characterized by dry skin and mouth, listlessness, sunken eyes and intense thirst, low blood pressure and rapid pulse.
In case of having these symptoms it is recommended “stay in a cool and shady place, take a shower or cool off with cold wet cloths on the head, neck, armpits and inguinal region and drink cold liquids”.
Heat stroke is different: Symptoms are body temperature greater than 40 degrees, hot and red skin, unsteady walking, dizziness and drowsiness, confusion, delirium, or seizures.
In that case, urgent medical attention should be requested and while the emergency arrives, you should “place the person in a cool, shady place”, “refresh the body with cold, wet cloths”. If the person is conscious,position her with her head higher than the rest of her body and offer her cool liquids”. And if the person is unconscious, “lay her on her side with legs bent”.
