If you’ve been paying attention to the news, you already know that over 1,000 people have passed away in Karachi due to the excruciating heatwave. In a time like this, it’s very critical to take steps so that you or your loved ones don’t have to experience a heatstroke and put your health at risk.

1. Wear loose fitting, lightweight clothing.

This should be easy for Pakistan because a Shalwar Qameez is both loose fitting and lightweight. Please keep in mind that wearing excess clothing or clothing that fits tightly won’t allow your body to cool properly.

2. Protect against sunburn.

Sunburn affects your body’s ability to cool itself, so protect yourself outdoors with a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses and use a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15. Apply sunscreen generously, and reapply every two hours — or more often if you’re swimming or sweating.Source: Baaghi TV

3. Drink plenty of fluids.

Staying hydrated will help your body sweat and maintain a normal body temperature. Please don’t let your roza be the reason you get a heatstroke – fasting is NOT meant to be a punishment.Source: hdnux

4. Take extra precautions with certain medications.

Be on the lookout for heat-related problems if you take medications that can affect your body’s ability to stay hydrated and dissipate heat.Source: brainfoodtv

5. Never leave anyone in a parked car.

This is a common cause of heat-related deaths in children. When parked in the sun, the temperature in your car can rise 20 degrees F (more than 6.7 C) in 10 minutes.

It’s not safe to leave a person in a parked car in warm or hot weather, even if the windows are cracked or the car is in shade. When your car is parked, keep it locked to prevent a child from getting inside.Source: children’s trust

6. Take it easy during the hottest parts of the day.

If you can’t avoid strenuous activity in hot weather, drink fluids and rest frequently in a cool spot. Try to schedule exercise or physical labor for cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or evening.Source: IBTimes

7. Give your body time so that it can adjust to the heat.

Limit time spent working or exercising in heat until you’re conditioned to it. People who are not used to hot weather are especially susceptible to heat-related illness. It can take several weeks for your body to adjust to hot weather.Source: Daily Mail

8. Be cautious if you’re at increased risk.

If you take medications or have a condition that increases your risk of heat-related problems, avoid the heat and act quickly if you notice symptoms of overheating. If you participate in a strenuous sporting event or activity in hot weather, make sure there are medical services available in case of a heat emergency. Again, don’t let fasting be the cause of a heatstroke. Ramzan is supposed to be a month of blessing, NOT torture.Source: timedotcom

Please help and inform everyone you know. This is a very serious matter and taking small individual steps can go a long way.