THE Ministry of Health and Wellness is reminding Jamaicans to be careful as the temperature rises, because excessive heat stress is harmful to health and is potentially fatal.

“Temperatures continue to soar this summer, exposing populations globally to excessive heat stress. Members of the Jamaican public are, therefore, advised to take precautionary measures to reduce exposure to heat and to limit the serious effects it can have on the body,” the ministry said in a news release.

It said typically, heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions such as a rash or cramps to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions such as heatstroke.

In order to prevent illness associated with the heat, Jamaicans are encouraged to:

•Hydrate with cool water, especially when it is hot and humid;

•Drink more fluids, limit or avoid sugar-sweetened drinks and beverages that contain alcohol;

•Drink more water than normal before, during, and after vigorous activities (at least 15 minutes before, and take fluid breaks at least every 15 minutes); and

• Exercise indoors where possible.

•Drink more water than normal if exposed to heat for long periods (greater than two hours);

•Avoid the sun during the middle of the day, for example, by limiting, as much as possible, outdoor activities to mornings and evenings and seeking out shade when outdoors; and

•Wear lightweight, light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes made of breathable fabrics.

“Some persons are at greater risk of being affected by heat. Among the most vulnerable are the elderly; people who are bedridden; infants and children younger than six years of age; people who are overweight; and those with pre-existing medical conditions, including diabetes and hypertension. Children should not be left in locked vehicles under any circumstances,” the ministry said.