The warning, issued this morning (Apr 15), explained that heatstroke can affect various systems in the body, and with temperatures in some parts of the country rising above 40°C, so did the risk of people suffering heatstroke.
The Phuket branch of the Thai Meteorological Department (Phuket Met) forecasts a high of 38°C today, with less cloud cover than enjoyed in recent days, making the heat more obvious to people not in the shade. Breezes of 15km/h gusting to 30km/h should help alleviate the ‘real feel’ of the temperature, the agency noted.
People at high-risk of suffering heatstroke included the elderly and people with chronic diseases such as heart disease, high blood pressure, lung disease, among others, the warning today said.
Children and pregnant women must be careful as well. The warning noted.
Signs that people were suffering heat stroke included: the body being overly hot, dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, fatigue, profuse sweating, heart pounding, fainting or having a seizure, and confused speech.
To provide assistance to a person suspected of suffering heatstroke, people were advised to move the person into the shade or a place with good ventilation. Have the person lie down and loosen any clothing to allow ventilation to the body.
Use a cloth moistened with cold water to wipe the body, neck, armpits and head, along with using a fan to cool the air if possible.
If the patient is unconscious, move them to lie on their side to prevent the tongue from blocking the airway until the person can be rushed to hospital or until emergency services arrive (Tel: 1669).