Navi Mumbai: Navi Mumbai residents were urged to guard against heatstroke as temperatures climbed across the state, the Navi Mumbai Municipal Corporation (NMMC) said. In its advisory, the civic body called a heat wave a “silent disaster” that typically occurred in the pre-monsoon months from March to June. It noted that a heat wave was declared when temperaturesstayed 3°C above the usual maximum for three straight days, or exceeded 45°C for two consecutive days.According to NMMC, heat waves seriously harmed people as well as birds, animals, and plants. It listed warning signs of heatstroke as intense heat and heavy sweating that might later stop, leaving the skin hot and dry; exhaustion and dizziness, including extreme weakness or fainting; severe headache with nausea or vomiting; painful muscle cramps in the arms and legs; and a dangerously high body temperature.For immediate care, NMMC advised moving the person to a shaded or cool area, lowering body temperature with cold compresses or by wiping with a wet cloth, and, if possible, giving a cold-water bath. To prevent dehydration, it recommended drinking plenty of water even without thirst and taking fluids such as ORS, lemon syrup, buttermilk, turmeric water, or lassi.The advisory also outlined safety measures: avoid going outdoors between noon and 4 pm; wear loose, light-coloured clothing and use a hat or umbrella; plan outdoor work before 10 am or after 4 pm; eat water-rich seasonal produce like watermelon, cantaloupe, oranges, grapes, pineapple, cucumber, and lettuce; avoid strenuous work in direct sun.NMMC advised to drink adequate water and fluids such as buttermilk, lemon water, and coconut water, and carry water while travelling; take special care of children, pregnant women, and older adults; do not walk barefoot on hot surfaces; never leave children or pets in a locked car; and ensure public events and sports venues provided water and were not in direct sunlight.NMMC appealed to residents to make small daily adjustments, follow these precautions, and seek help at the nearest Urban Primary Health Centre or hospital if heat stroke symptoms appeared.
