Eat Light, Reduce High-fat Food, FG Releases Advisory On Heatwave

Sequel to the warning by the Nigeria Meteorological Agency of prolonged heat waves in the country, the Federal Government through the Ministry of Environment has released information and advisory notes on ways to cope and stay safe with the heat.

The Agency had reported that the temperatures in the country reached 39 °C in the South and 41°C in the North.

Explaining the meaning of heatwave, the ministry stated that it is a prolonged period of excessive heat, often combined with excessive humidity, adding that it is caused by warm air being trapped in the atmosphere.

However, it is increasing in intensity and frequency due to climate change.

The ministry noted that the exposure to heat waves can pose serious health, social, environmental and economic risks, adding that infants, children, pregnant women, and the elderly are especially vulnerable to heat stress.

“Some common symptoms of heat stress are dry lips/sticky mouth, excessive thirst, weakness/dizziness, nausea/vomiting, heat rashes, mild fever, confusion, fainting, very high body temperature for longer than 2 hours (40 °C), no urination in more than 8 hours/dark urine, rapid heartbeat and breathing,” the ministry noted.

While listing ways to cope and stay safe with heatwave, the ministry among other things, urged Nigerians to eat light (fruits, vegetables) and reduce high-fat foods.

Other information and advisory to cope with the heat stress, according to the ministry include;
“Be prepared. Plan your outdoor activities to avoid unnecessary exposure to the heatwave.

“Keep an emergency kit at home that contains oral rehydration salt (ORS) packets, a thermometer, water bottles, towels or cloths to wet for cooling, and a handheld fan with batteries.

“Know how to get help. Note down the contact information for the nearest health care provider or ambulance/transport services.

“Keep your home cool. When possible, close the curtains during the hottest parts of the day and open windows at night time to cool down the house. Use a fan or air conditioning, if available.

“Stay out of the heat. Do not go outside during the hottest times of the day if you can avoid it. Try to arrange your activities earlier or later in the day when it is cooler.
“When outside, wear sunscreen and try to stay in the shade or use hats and umbrellas for protection. Never leave anyone in a parked and closed vehicle.

“Stay cool and hydrated. Drink water at regular intervals before you are thirsty.

“Wear light and loose-fitting clothing. Cotton is ideal during hot days to help reduce heat rashes and absorb sweating. Similarly, cotton bed sheets are recommended over non-breathable materials.

“Carry a water bottle and a small towel, so you can hydrate and cool down by placing a wet towel on your neck.

“Stay in cool places, spots in the shade or places with air conditioning. Reduce physical activity and avoid participating in outdoor sports in the central hours of the day.

“Avoid drinks that contain caffeine, alcohol or sugar. Eat light (fruits, vegetables) and reduce high-fat foods.”

For infants and children, the ministry urged parents to check regularly if their child is thirsty, sweating, feeling hot, vomiting, has a dry and sticky mouth, or experiencing headaches.