Jamaicans urged to keep cool as temperatures soar

Amid consistently sweltering heat being experienced on the island, the Ministry of Health and Wellness has advised that all possible steps should be taken to minimise heat-related injuries or death.

Among the measures recommended by the health ministry is for adults to avoid leaving children unattended in motor vehicles.

Dr Nicole Dawkins Wright, director of emergency, disaster management and special services in the Ministry of Health and Wellness, said heat-related illnesses can range from mild conditions such as a rash or cramps to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions such as heatstroke.

"Older persons, that is those over 65 years of age, and children under six years, bed-ridden persons, those who are overweight or with pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertention are high risk and must take extra precautions," Dawkins Wright said.

In order to prevent illness associated with the heat, members of the public are encouraged to hydrate with cool water, especially when it is hot and humid. Persons are also encouraged to drink more fluids, limit or avoid sugar-sweetened drinks and beverages that contain alcohol and to drink more water than they normally do before, during and after vigorous activities.

Jamaica, as other Caribbean countries, is currently experiencing a heat season that is typically between May and October each year. Extremely high temperatures are being recorded this year.