[RBS] MDA Prepares for Heat Wave.Please keep safe!

[M. S.]

 I just copied this article from Arutz Sheva. Very high temperatures are
expected towards the weekend. Unfortuntely I know from personal experience
how easy it is to land at Terem because of dehydration! Please do not
underestimate the dangers and protect yourselves and your families.

"A major heat wave is expected to hit Israel this week. MDA gives tips on
how to stay safe as temperatures soar.
by Maayana Miskin
Published: 24/07/11, 6:29 PM

  "A major heat wave is expected to hit Israel this week, with temperatures
rising to *40-45* degrees Celsius (104-113 Fahrenheit) in much of the
country, particularly as the weekend approaches.

Israel's emergency medical service Magen David Adom (MDA) is preparing by
upping its presence in tourist areas and high population areas. In addition,
the group has published safety tips for the public during the heat wave.
Experts have warned that babies, children and the elderly are particularly
at risk.

To avoid dehydration or heat stroke:
1. Drink plenty of fluids. Drinking is advised even beyond quenching thirst.
The ideal is to drink small amounts every few minutes. Cold drinks are
preferable to hot drinks, and water is preferable to sweetened drinks.
2. When outside the home, it is advised to stop to rest in a cool place out
of the sun. Children and babies in particular should be protected using
hats, sunscreen, and appropriate dress.
3. Babies and children should not be left in a closed vehicle for any period
of time, even with the windows open. Temperatures rise extremely quickly
inside closed vehicles, and can lead to heat stroke or even death within
minutes. If children must be left in a closed vehicle, an adult should be
present, air conditioning should be on and there should be a cold drink
available.
4. Sports and exercise should be avoided completely during the hottest hours
of the day. When taking part in sports or exercise in the evening, be sure
to drink frequently and avoid overexertion.
5. When visiting the beach, be sure to apply a high-SPF sunscreen, and avoid
lengthy periods of direct exposure to sunlight even with sunscreen on. Avoid
beaches during the hottest hours of the day. Before entering the water, make
sure a lifeguard is present.
6. Workers exposed to the heat should take breaks in a shady area, and drink
frequently.
7. Symptoms of dehydration include headache, dizziness and weakness. Those
who experience such symptoms should immediately stop any physical exertion,
move to a shady, cool place, and drink plenty of liquids.
8. In case a person shows symptoms of heat stroke, such as fainting, those
present should contact MDA immediately by dialing 101. Until paramedics
arrive, keep the victim cool by directing a fan and spray of water at them.
9. Take particular note of babies, children, the elderly, and those with
disabilities. Notice any changes in children's behavior that could indicate
dehydration or heat stroke. Make sure they have access to liquids and are
drinking, and are not overly exposed to the heat. Those with elderly or
disabled friends and relatives are advised to visit them or keep in touch by
phone and to make sure they are drinking, have a cool shady place to stay,
and are not suffering symptoms of dehydration or heat stroke.

“I advise every Israeli household to listen to MDA's instructions and do
everything they can to avoid being harmed by the heat,” said MDA director
Eli Ben. “In case of need, MDA's trained crews are prepared to provide an
immediate response.”
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