5 doctor-approved tips to follow during long-distance travel amid heatwave

Packed your sunscreen, swimwear and sunglasses for that much-awaited summer getaway? You may want to add a few health essentials to your travel checklist too.

With heatwave conditions continuing across many parts of India, summer travel comes with its own set of challenges. The period also coincides with the peak summer travel season, with families heading out during school vacations and tourist destinations witnessing heavy crowds.

Prolonged exposure to high temperatures during road trips, bus journeys and non-AC train travel can increase the risk of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

While postponing or cancelling travel plans may not always be possible, experts say, it is important to keep track of weather conditions and be aware of the warning signs of dehydration and heat-related illnesses.

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Speaking to Firstpost, Dr Amlendu Yadav, Head of the Department of Emergency Medicine at Atal Bihari Vajpayee Institute of Medical Sciences and Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Hospital, New Delhi, said, "Prevention is the best protection and it is necessary to stay hydrated, stay cool, and travel smart during the heatwave."

How to stay safe while travelling during heatwave?

Following these tips can help make your travel smooth and stress-free.

1. Hydrate before you feel thirsty

Carry sufficient drinking water and take small sips frequently throughout the journey. Avoid excessive tea, coffee, alcohol and sugary drinks, as they can worsen dehydration.

2. Avoid peak heat hours

As far as possible, plan travel during the early morning or evening hours. Minimise exposure to direct sunlight between 12 pm and 4 pm, when temperatures are usually highest.

3. Wear light and loose clothing

Choose loose-fitting, light-coloured cotton clothes. Use a cap, hat, umbrella or scarf to protect yourself from direct sun exposure.

4. Never leave anyone inside a parked vehicle

Temperatures inside a parked car can rise rapidly within minutes. Never leave children, elderly persons or pets unattended inside vehicles, even for a short duration.

5. Recognise early warning signs of heat illness

Excessive sweating, dizziness, headache, weakness, nausea, muscle cramps, confusion or unusually high body temperature may indicate heat exhaustion or heat stroke. Seek medical attention immediately if these symptoms occur.

What to do if someone suffers heat stroke during a journey?

Dr Yadav advises adopting the "Cool First, Transport Fast" approach, stressing that early cooling and rapid medical attention can be lifesaving in cases of heat stroke.