Rescue 1122 issues heatwave safety advisory for Rawalpindi residents

RAWALPINDI, Jun 30 (APP): Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi has urged citizens to take preventive measures as intense heat continues to affect Rawalpindi and surrounding areas, warning that prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures can pose serious health and safety risks.

According to media coordinator, Rescue 1122 Rawalpindi Muhammad Usman Gujjar the residents should avoid unnecessary exposure to direct sunlight, particularly between 11:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. when temperatures are at their highest.

The department advised people to stay well-hydrated, wear light-colored clothing, and keep their heads and necks covered while outdoors.

Special care should be taken to protect vulnerable groups, including children, elderly people, women, and individuals with underlying health conditions, from heat-related illnesses.

The emergency service also cautioned motorists against leaving children or elderly passengers unattended inside parked vehicles. Citizens were advised not to keep perfume, lighters, or other flammable materials inside vehicles due to the risk of fire in extreme heat.

Before travelling, drivers should inspect their vehicle’s wiring, battery, and fuel system, while ensuring that a standard fire extinguisher is available in the vehicle and that they know how to use it.

Rescue 1122 further warned that faulty or overloaded electrical wiring in homes and commercial buildings is a major cause of fires during hot weather. The public was advised to avoid plugging multiple electrical appliances into a single socket to prevent overloading.

The department also appealed to farmers and the general public not to set fire to dry grass or roadside waste, noting that even small fires can quickly spread and result in major emergencies.

Highlighting the dangers of heatstroke, Rescue 1122 said common symptoms include high fever, dizziness, severe weakness, unconsciousness, and difficulty breathing. In the event of a suspected heatstroke case, the affected person should be moved to a shaded area, cooled immediately, and provided with drinking water if conscious.

Rescue 1122 urged citizens to call the emergency helpline 1122 immediately in the event of any emergency.

“Adopt precautionary measures to protect yourself and your loved ones,” the department said in its public safety advisory.