Emergency declared in Islamabad hospitals

ISLAMABAD: Following the Pakistan Meteorological Department’s warning of a heatwave, all hospitals in the federal capital have been put on high alert to deal with any o deal with any untoward situation.

To ensure that the best possible medical care is available, the Islamabad admin has sent a letter to the PIMS and Polyclinics hospitals, requesting them to be prepared for any medical emergency that may arise during the ongoing hot weather.

NDMA advisory

The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has advised the masses to take precautionary measures to cope with the scorching heatwave and summer winds that could be deadly sans care.

The NDMA, in its advisory, said that people should use plain water more, avoid carbonated drinks, and abstain from going out during the hottest hours of the day.

“Cover your head and then go out in the hot sun. Take special care of the sick, elderly, children and pets. Drink lemon water and ORS to compensate for salt deficiency. Wear light and soft clothes,” it said.

The NDMA added, “If someone faints in the heat, the people should pour cold water on his or her head.”

It also noted that extreme heat waves could cause glaciers to melt in glaciated regions, saying the relevant institutions were on alert to deal with the possible situation.

The residents of the areas affected by the threat of glacial lakes outburst floods (GLOFs) should be aware and careful and cooperate with local administration in any emergency situation, the NDMA added.

During this time, tourists should avoid travelling and staying in areas with possible GLOF risk, the authority said, adding timely protective measures could be helpful in preventing the damages caused by the melting of glaciers.