Kerala State Disaster Management Authority (KSDMA) has declared that there is a high possibility of heat stroke across the state till Sunday in the wake of increase in temperatures. “Under this circumstance, people should cautiously stay away from being exposed to direct sunlight from 11am to 3pm during these days,” said a statement released by the KSDMA.

According to the reports by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), there will be a rise in temperature from 2 to 4 degree Celsius during April 12 and 13. Kottayam, Pathanamthitta, Idukki, Ernakulam, Thrissur, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur and Kasaragod are the districts most susceptible to rise in temperature.

It has also been advised to suspend classes for school and college students on days which have been specially mentioned as ‘cautious’. The local bodies should ensure that children in Anganwadis  are not exposed to high temperatures and if so, appropriate measures should be taken.

The Labour Commission has also put out an order asking employers to strictly make sure that workers are not exposed to direct sunlight from 11am to 3pm as temperatures are likely to increase in the summer season.

The KSDMA has also put out an advisory which states:

• People are advised to carry a bottle of water always to prevent dehydration.
• Drink clean water. Avoid the intake of coffee, tea, alcohol or cool drinks in daytime.
• Wear lose fitting and light coloured cloths.
• Those who are on holiday trips do manage time schedule according to peak hot hours.
• Ensure that children do not play outdoors from 11am to 3pm.
• As pregnant women, aged people, children and those suffering from different ailments are very prone to get heat stroke, they should be extra cautious not to get exposed to sunlight directly from 11am to 3pm.
• Companies should ensure that their online food delivery staff are safe and secure while travelling in direct sunlight during the particular hours. They should be given time to rest in between their working hours and should also be given protective gear to avoid exposure to direct sunlight.