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People, particularly those engaged in outdoor work or activities, have been advised to step up preventive measures to prevent heat stroke in view of recent high temperatures.
The Assistant Director of Health (Health Promotion), Dr Regina Ching, today (July 24) said people should make sure that they drink enough water to prevent dehydration while engaging in outdoor activities.
"They should avoid beverages containing too much caffeine (eg coffee and tea) or alcohol."
People should pay particular attention to children, the elderly, the sick and obese persons who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and provide them with timely and appropriate advice and care," Dr Ching said.
Other preventive measures against heat stroke include:
* For indoor activities, open all windows, use fan or air-conditioning to maintain good ventilation.
* Avoid doing vigorous exercise in a hot or stuffy environment. Choose an indoor venue with good ventilation.
* Wear light-coloured and loose-fitting clothes, wide-brim hat or use umbrella while going outdoors.
* Do not go hiking or trekking during extremely hot weather.
* Perform outdoor activities either in the morning or in the evening.
* Do not stay inside stationary vehicles.
Dr Ching said that any person feeling unwell should immediately seek medical advice.
People who wish to get more information on the prevention of heat stroke can call DH's Central Health Education Unit Hotline at 2833 0111. Information can also be obtained from DH's health educational homepage at http://www.cheu.gov.hk by clicking "Important Issues" to obtain relevant health information.
Ends/Monday, July 24, 2006
Issued at HKT 10:41
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