ILOILO City – In response to soaring temperatures, the Traffic and Transportation Management Office (TTMO) of the city government has introduced heatstroke breaks for its traffic aides. This would safeguard their health from extreme heat, said Uldarico Garbanzos, TTMO head.
Traffic aides are now allowed to take shelter between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m., the hottest part of the day.
“During these hours, we advise our traffic aides to seek shade and refrain from standing in the middle of the road unless there’s a traffic issue that needs immediate attention,” Garbanzos said.
According to the Department of Health (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.
While the aides will remain responsible for traffic control during rush hours, their well-being is prioritized during the midday heat, Garbanzos emphasized.
In addition to heat stroke breaks, the TTMO has ensured that all traffic aides receive necessary vitamins, maintenance support, and facemasks to cope with the harsh working conditions.
The policy also extends to personnel from the Public Order and Safety Management Office (POSMO), responsible for managing ambulant vendors and providing pedestrian assistance.
“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 Mayor Jerry Treñas, urging citizens to reach out to local health centers for any emergencies.
For its part, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) may recommend suspending face-to-face classes if heat levels reach critical thresholds.
CDRRMO head Donna Magno stressed, “We are closely monitoring the heat index to guide our recommendations to the city government. The health and safety of our students and residents are our top priorities.”
The CDRRMO has set a threshold of 42°C for the heat index, which could trigger the suspension of face-to-face classes and restrictions on outdoor activities.
Darwin Papa, head of the CDRRMO Disaster Response Division, emphasized the need for swift action in extreme heat conditions.
“If temperatures reach critical levels, we must act quickly to prevent heat-related illnesses,” he said.
The CDRRMO urged the public to take necessary precautions:
* Limit outdoor activities during peak heat hours from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
* Stay hydrated by drinking water regularly and avoiding alcohol.
* Wear appropriate clothing, such as light-colored, loose-fitting clothes, and avoid dark-colored attire.
* Use sun protection, including umbrellas, hats, or sunscreen.
Papa also advised the public to be alert to the early signs of heat illnesses, such as excessive sweating, exhaustion, dizziness, and nausea.
“If you experience these symptoms, immediately seek assistance, find a cool place, drink water, and rest,” he warned.
Meanwhile, 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./PN
