Abu Dhabi Police warn residents of heatstroke

Abu Dhabi - Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke, is a medical condition in which the body is unable to control its temperature.

The Abu Dhabi Police on Tuesday (July 2) reiterated its summer warning: Keep yourself hydrated and, as much as possible, stay in the shade.
The Directorate of Emergency and Public Safety at the Abu Dhabi Police's Central Operations Sector reminded residents to take extra precautions against heatstroke, as the summer heat peaks.
As part of their 'Have a Safe Summer' campaign, the police urged people to avoid long periods of direct sun exposure as this may lead to heatstroke, which can be fatal if not treated right away.
Heatstroke, also known as sunstroke, is a medical condition in which the body is unable to control its temperature.
"It may progressively worsen and damage the brain cells or internal organs, such as the heart or kidneys," the police said in a statement.
"The temperature of the body may reach 41 degrees Celsius. The symptoms of sunstroke may include nausea, rapid heartbeat, muscle spasm, hallucinations and disorientation, lack of sweating despite high fever, loss of consciousness and fainting," the police said.
People were advised to "drink enough water, wear loose and light clothing, and limit their stay in open spaces".
In previous years, authorities have recorded cases of heatstroke, resulting from spending several hours under the sun and failing to drink enough water.
What to do in case of heatstroke emergency
>Move the patient to a cool place, away from the sunlight.
>Remove any tight or unnecessary clothing and give them a cool shower and cold drinks, if they are conscious.
>If a person is unconscious, make sure the airway is open and that they are breathing. He or she should be placed in the recovery position with ice packs being placed in the armpits, groin and on the neck.
>Call 999 and seek help from the police. Describe the patient's condition; give the right address; and enumerate the actions taken to treat the patient. ?
>Stay with the patient until the ambulance arrives.
ismail@khaleejtimes.com
 

• Abu Dhabi