Drink enough water to avoid dehydration during Summer

Muscat: Not drinking enough quantities of water and exposure to direct sun and high temperatures may lead to dehydration and thermal shock, the Public Authority of Civil Defense and Ambulance (PACDA) noted.

PACDA said in an advisory: "A failure to drink enough water is one of the most important reasons that affects people, in addition to exposure to direct sunlight for a long time, wearing tight clothes and exercising and physical efforts in a hot and humid atmosphere."

"When exposed to these factors, especially in the summer season," PACDA added, "The patient shows several symptoms, including profuse sweating, headache and diarrhea, weakness in the body and dizziness, as well as pain and cramps in the fingers, arms, legs and pain in the abdomen, in addition to a loss of consciousness."

To prevent such incidents caused by high temperatures, the authority calls on everyone to drink sufficient quantities of water continuously, avoid exposure to direct sunlight for long periods, not to overexert in a hot and humid atmosphere, not to wear tight clothing when exposed to heat and to adhere to the health instructions issued by competent authorities to avoid Covid-19 infection."

To aid emergency cases associated with high temperatures, PACDA recommends that the victim be moved out of direct sunlight or a cold place if possible and make the victim lie on the back. If the person is conscious, he/she must be given fluids or juices, and one must use a piece of sponge or towel dampened in cold water and put on the victim's head and extremities."

In the absence of signs of life, it is necessary to start CPR procedures and then transfer the injured to the nearest health institution.

"To request help and ambulance services, call the emergency number (9999) or (24343666)."