The CoE and DEMS share safety precautions because of the recent high temperatures, with more expected. The South African Weather Services (SAWS) forecast the heatwave to persist until the weekend of December 8.
Combustibles can easily ignite, so the city urges residents not to leave open fires and heat sources unattended and to take care of flammable liquids and gases.
In a heatwave, people are prone to dehydration, cramps, heat exhaustion and heatstroke, the worst-case scenario being death.
Dehydration:
Excessive loss of body fluids/electrolytes leads to the vital organs malfunctioning and can affect everybody. The body fails to function normally, leading to lethargy.
Heat cramps:
Muscles go into spasms because of the loss of salts, water and electrolytes. Cramping mostly happens in the abdomen, arms and calves.
Treatment:
• Drink water or sports drinks to replace the electrolytes.
• Do not do strenuous activity for some hours.
• Avoid from direct sunlight.
• Gently massage the affected muscle.
Heat exhaustion:
The body cannot effectively cool itself because of high temperatures or intense physical exertion.
Signs and symptoms:
• Heavy sweat;
• Fatigue;
• Weakness;
• Paleness;
• Clammy skin;
• Weak heartbeat;
• Muscle cramps;
• Nausea and possible vomiting;
• Headache;
• Fainting.
Treatment:
• Rehydrate the patient by letting them sip chilled water or a sports drink containing electrolytes.
• Cool them by spraying or sponging them with cool water or fan them.
• Affected patients must go to a medical facility for more definitive medical treatment.
Heatstroke:
Heatstroke is a heat illness that causes a body temperature higher than 40°C.
Signs and symptoms:
• Red skin;
• Headache;
• Dizziness;
• Confusion;
• General body sweat (external heatstroke)
• Seizures;
• Coma.
Treatment:
• Remove excess clothing;
• Get the patient into the shade;
• Cool the body under the cold shower;
• Transport to a medical facility for definitive treatment.
General safety tips:
• Know where your children are at all times;
• Do not let them swim in rivers, dams or trenches;
• Report open trenches because unsuspecting children could drown;
• Avoid being in the sun for a long time;
• Wear a sun hat and sunglasses;
• Light, bright clothing deters heat absorption.
• Drink lots of cool water and avoid fizzy drinks.
The CoE and DEMS are on high alert for any eventualities. They urge residents to constantly monitor the weather, reported by the SAWS on various media platforms.
Call the DEMS’ Life Threatening Number for emergencies so they can dispatch the relevant rescue: 011 458 0911.
Alternative numbers:
• 112 (toll-free).
• 10177 or 107 (toll-free).
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