The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) officially declares the end of the Northeast Monsoon (Amihan) and the beginning of the warm and dry season in the country.

In the coming months, warmer temperatures are expected but rainfall across the country influenced mostly by easterlies and localized thunderstorms is still expected.

To fully enjoy the summer, the public is reminded to take precautionary measures to minimize heat stress.

• H-ydrate: One of the best ways to protect yourself from the heat is to stay well hydrated. Drinking water is best and avoid drinking soda, coffee, tea, and even alcohol;
• E-at foods with high water content, like watermelon, which is also hydrating;
• A-void too much sun exposure, if possible, use sunblock to protect your skin. Apply sunblock with at least SPF30 to prevent getting sunburned. Bring protective gear such as an umbrella or hat; and
• T-ry dressing comfortably. Wear light, breathable, and comfortable clothing.

Everyone is also warned to avoid being overexposed or over-exercised for his or her age and physical condition in the existing thermal environment which may cause a heat stroke.

From heat cramps to heat exhaustion, if not attentively noticed, heat stroke can happen. If the body fails to recover from heat exhaustion, heat stroke will manifest with an increased body temperature of 104 to 105 degrees Fahrenheit (41˚C), flushed skin, faintness, dizziness, and weakness. Signs may also be rapid heartbeat rate, convulsion, and unconsciousness.

Hence, if a person is showing symptoms of heat stroke, the following are proper methods to handle them according to the Department of Health. Remember that heat stroke is a medical emergency.

• Move the person to a shady spot or indoors;
• Have him/her lie down with legs elevated;
• If able to drink liquids, have him/her sip cool water;
• Loosen clothing, apply cool water to the skin, and fan the person; and
• Apply ice packs to the armpits, wrists, ankles, and groin;

After instituting emergency measures, it is best to bring the patient to the nearest hospital.

Moreover, summertime means vacation time and fiesta season in the country. Food poisoning and diarrhea are also common incidents mostly due to improper food handling and inadequate temperature control of foods. Most of the outbreaks were caused by bacterial contamination. Hence, the public is advised to take the following precautions:

• Pack perishable foods from the refrigerator or freezer directly into the cooler;
• Always keep raw foods, or those meant to be eaten raw such as fruits, wrapped separately from cooked foods;
• Cook food properly. Make sure that raw meat, poultry, and seafood are cooked thoroughly. Cook the food until it is steaming hot all the way through, especially leftovers and ready-to-eat foods;
• Drink safe water;
• Discard any food if you are not sure that it has been prepared, served, or stored safely. Food left unattended at room temperature for more than an hour, especially during summer, can cause bacterial growth or toxins that cannot be destroyed by merely cooking;
• Left-over food should be refrigerated and reheated before being eaten;
• Peel and wash fruits and vegetables before eating; and
• Regularly wash your hands, particularly before and after meals.

We can fully enjoy the summer without risking our health. Always remember these tips and surely you will have a fun summertime! (KSAA - PIA CPSD)

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Photo credit: Borbon Beach - PIA Region IV-B (MIMAROPA)