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Members of the public, particularly those engaged in outdoor activities, are strongly advised to step up preventive measures taken to prevent heat stroke in view of the high temperature forecast for the next few days.
The Assistant Director of Health (Health Promotion), Dr Regina Ching, today (June 26) said, "People should ensure 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."
Members of the public should pay particular attention to children, the elderly, the sick and obese people who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses and provide them with timely and appropriate advice and care.
Other preventive measures against heat stroke include:
* For indoor activities, open all windows, use a 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, wear a wide-brimmed hat or use an umbrella while outdoors.
* Do not go hiking 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 anyone feeling unwell should seek medical advice immediately.
Members of the public who wish to get more information on the prevention of heat stroke can call the department's Central Health Education Unit Hotline at 2833 0111. Information can also be obtained from the department's health educational homepage at http://www.cheu.gov.hk by clicking "Important Issues" to obtain relevant health information.
Ends/Monday, June 26, 2006
Issued at HKT 12:06
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