— Health Minister Dr. Balbir Singh Directs Civil Surgeons to Ensure 24/7 Preparedness and Medical Supplies for Heat-Related Illnesses
CHANDIGARH, May 23:
Amidst the increase in extreme heat conditions across the state, Punjab Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr Balbir Singh on Saturday said that the health department has already taken proactive steps to prepare facilities and the workforce to prevent, mitigate, and manage the impacts of extreme heat. The Minister highlighted that extreme heat exposure significantly raises the risk of heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, while exacerbating existing cardiovascular and respiratory conditions.
“To ensure the safety of our citizens, all Civil Surgeons have been directed to operationalize dedicated Heat Stroke Management Units across all District Hospitals, Sub-Division Hospitals, and Community Health Centres,” said Dr Balbir Singh. He emphasized that these wards are clearly marked and equipped with active cooling measures, including ice packs and cold IV fluids. Essential medical supplies, such as ORS and emergency drugs, are well-stocked at every public health facility.
The Minister further noted that ambulance preparedness has been strengthened to provide pre-hospital cooling during transit. The state is utilizing the IHIP portal for real-time monitoring of Heat-Related Illness (HRI) cases, and District Task Force meetings are being conducted to coordinate heat action plans with departments like Education, Labour, and Transport.
“While our medical teams are well-trained and ready, I urge the public, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly and children, to remain vigilant and follow the department’s safety guidelines,” Dr. Balbir Singh added.
: HEATWAVE SAFETY ADVISORY
DO’s:
Stay Hydrated: Drink water every 20–30 minutes, even if not thirsty. Use ORS, lassi, and lemon water.
Dress Appropriately: Wear light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothes. Use umbrellas, hats, or towels to cover your head.
Plan Your Day: Schedule outdoor work during cooler early morning or evening hours.
Eat Smart: Consume water-rich fruits like watermelon, oranges, and cucumbers. Eat small, frequent meals.
Keep Indoors Cool: Use curtains, fans, and ensure proper ventilation.
Worker Safety: Employers should provide shaded rest areas and safe drinking water for outdoor laborers.
DON’Ts:
Avoid Peak Sun: Do not go out between 12:00 PM and 3:00 PM unless absolutely necessary.
Skip Dehydrating Drinks: Limit tea, coffee, alcohol, and carbonated sugary drinks.
Avoid Heavy Food: Skip fried, spicy, or stale food which can strain digestion.
No Strenuous Activity: Refrain from heavy exercise during peak heat hours.
*Vehicle Safety: Never leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.
EMERGENCY SYMPTOMS:
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
– High body temperature (40°C or higher)
– Altered mental state, confusion, or seizures- Hot, red, and dry skin
– Severe headache, nausea, or rapid heartbeat
Emergency Helplines: 104, 108, or 112
