With the arrival of summer, the Regional Health Directorate has carried out an awareness campaign with regards to the associated risks of high temperatures, sun exposure and summer fun.
As such, the DRS warns that high temperatures represent an increased risk to health, not only for the most vulnerable groups (elderly people, children, pregnant women, people living with chronic diseases and people who work outdoors), but also for the general population.
Sunburn, dehydration, changes in the regulation of body temperature and decompensation of chronic diseases are more frequent in this period and must be prevented, says the DRS.. Therefore, they advise using sunscreen and staying indoors during the hottest parts of the day.
They also stress that incidences of food poisoning, drowning, and fires increase dramatically through the summer months, and that everyone should plan their summer activities with safety in mind.
Furthermore, pets are at risk at this time, and therefore, adequate protection against the sun and heat must be provided, as well as a plentiful supply of fresh water.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
