With temperatures soaring and the risk of heatstroke rising, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) has issued a heatwave advisory, urging citizens to take necessary precautions. The guidelines, aligned with directives from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), aim to protect residents from extreme heat risks.

Meanwhile, India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted an intense heatwave to persist in Mumbai and parts of Maharashtra until March 11, with similar conditions expected to return in March and April. In response, the BMC has outlined key steps to help residents stay safe in the heat.

1. Drink and carry plenty of water.

2. Wear light, loose, breathable and soft cotton clothes.

3. When going out in the sun, use protective sunglasses, an umbrella or cap, and appropriate footwear. If possible, cover your head and face with a large cotton cloth.

4. Avoid alcohol, tea, coffee, and carbonated drinks as they can cause dehydration.

5. Avoid high-protein foods and stale food

6. Use a damp cloth on your head, neck, face, and limbs.

7. Do not leave children or pets inside parked vehicles.

8. Drink ORS, buttermilk, lemon water, coconut water, rice water (torani), and other homemade hydrating drinks regularly.

9. Keep animals in shaded areas and provide them with plenty of water.

10. Keep your home cool by using curtains, shutters, or sunshades. Keep windows open at night.

11. Use fans, and wet clothes; take frequent cool baths.

12. If you feel weak or unwell, seek medical help immediately.

• Move the affected person to a cool, shaded area. Wipe the body and head with a damp cloth or repeatedly pour normal-temperature water over them, especially on the head. The primary goal is to lower body temperature.

• Give them ORS, lemon juice, or any other hydrating drink to restore the body's fluid balance.

• Immediately take the affected person to the nearest healthcare centre.
  Heatstroke can be life-threatening, so hospital admission is crucial.