ILOILO City – With extreme heat threatening to scorch Western Visayas, the Iloilo City Government has issued an urgent plea to residents, warning that rising temperatures could lead to a spike in heat-related illnesses if immediate action is not taken.
Its call comes after the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC), along with the Department of Health (DOH) and the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA), issued advisories citing the extreme heat expected in the coming days.
“As temperatures soar and the heat index climbs to dangerous levels, we must act now to protect ourselves and our families from life-threatening heat-related conditions,” Mayor Jerry Treñas said in a statement.
All response teams in Iloilo City are on high alert, with medical supplies and mobility assets in place to respond to any emergencies, he announced.
The Iloilo City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (ICDRRMO) has ramped up monitoring efforts, vowing to keep the public informed with regular updates on the situation, the mayor further said.
“I urge everyone to take the necessary precautions to avoid heat exhaustion and heatstroke. Don’t wait for an emergency to act,” Treñas stressed.
According to DOH Region 6, heatstroke signs include a body temperature above 40°C, hot, dry skin, confusion, headache, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps, loss of consciousness, and convulsion, all of which can escalate to more severe complications.
“Let’s stay vigilant and take care of one another during this intense extreme heat to ensure the safety and well-being of all Ilonggos,” said Treñas, urging citizens to reach out to local health centers for any emergencies.
In addition to heatstroke and exhaustion, the DOH-6 also cautioned against heat cramps and heat syncope. It recommends the following during a heat-related medical emergency:
* Move the patient to a shaded, cool area, or away from direct sunlight.
* Remove clothing that adds to the heat.
* Spray or splash the body with water.
* Use a fan or expose the person to airflow.
* If available, apply ice packs to the face, palms, and feet.
Immediately call for help and bring the patient to the nearest healthcare provider.
DOH-6 further advised the public to observe the following:
* Avoid outdoor activities during peak heat hours, and if necessary, schedule them in the morning or late afternoon when the sun’s intensity has decreased.
* Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
* Use a hat or other protective covering to shield yourself from the intense sun.
Wear light, loose-fitting clothing and avoid dark-colored clothes./PN
