Bengaluru: Temperatures are dropping significantly in many parts of the state, with intense cold winds blowing. The Karnataka State Government and the State Disaster Management Authority have announced important precautionary measures to prevent the adverse effects of the chilling cold on the health of the public. For all such information.
- Cold wave across the state: Temperatures are dropping in many districts of Karnataka, prompting the government to declare a ‘cold wave’ alert.
- Wear layers of clothing: It is recommended to wear several layers of woolen clothing to protect against the cold.
- Hydration is important: Drink lukewarm water and nutritious food regularly, even if you are not thirsty.
- Ban on alcohol: Drinking alcohol during cold weather is dangerous; it causes a drop in body temperature.
- Indoor safety: Do not burn coal or a stove in a closed room; this can cause suffocation.
- Special care: Children, the elderly, and pregnant women should be careful not to go out during cold weather.
The government has advised senior citizens, children and pregnant women to be especially vigilant as the cold weather is likely to intensify over the next few days. Here are some important guidelines to follow to avoid the cold weather:
What should you do to protect yourself from the cold?
1. Make the right choice of attire:
- Instead of wearing just one thick layer of clothing, wear several layers of loose and lightweight woolen clothing. This will help retain body heat.
- Since most of the body heat is lost through the head, it is mandatory to use a hat or muffler. Wear gloves for your hands and warm socks for your feet.
2. Food and water order:
- Drink lukewarm water regularly, even if you are not thirsty. It is essential to keep the body hydrated.
- To boost your immune system, eat fruits, green vegetables, and hot soups or herbal teas rich in vitamin C.
3. Take care of your health:
- Use oil, petroleum jelly, or moisturizing creams to prevent skin from drying out.
- If you experience symptoms such as hypothermia (extreme shivering, confusion) or frostbite (skin numbness), contact a doctor immediately.
Don’t do these things during cold weather.
- Avoid alcohol: It is a misconception that alcohol keeps the body warm. In fact, it lowers the body’s core temperature, increasing the risk of hypothermia.
- Do not use hot water directly: Do not apply or rub extremely hot water directly on skin that has become numb from the cold. This can damage the tissues.
- Be careful when lighting a fire indoors: Do not burn coal or wood in a closed room. This can release toxic carbon monoxide, which can be fatal.
- Physical exertion: Avoid excessive physical exercise or strenuous work in the cold. Sweating can cause your clothes to become wet and your body to cool down quickly.
Check the weather update.
The public should keep an eye on the official information of the India Meteorological Department (IMD) or the Karnataka State Natural Disaster Management Centre for daily weather reports. Unless necessary, avoid stepping out of the house between 5:00 am and 8:00 am and late at night.
