As heat waves grip many parts of the country, the Center has directed states and Union Territories to review and ensure the establishment of dedicated heatstroke rooms in all healthcare facilities, along with critical fire and electrical safety measures. The temperature goes rise up from 46 degree Celsius above to 51 degree Celsius in various districts in Delhi state. The red alert were already given to the general public and municipalities.
Dr. Atul Goel of the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) held a virtual meeting with state and UT officials to review preparedness for heat conditions and review fire safety protocols at health facilities across the country.
The Center has issued recommendations to state health departments to strengthen health systems against heat-related illnesses (HRI). These recommendations include public health guidance on dos and don’ts during heat waves, emergency cooling guidelines, and updated autopsy procedures for heat-related deaths.
States are also directed to comply with the notification of the Health Minister and the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) regarding fire safety measures for health facilities. This includes assessing the readiness of medical facilities and ambulances to handle thermal impacts.
In earlier alerts, states and UTs were instructed to take proactive measures against devastating heat waves, focusing on the fire safety protocols outlined in the May 29 letter.
Key measures include:
- Implementation of the Heat Health Action Plan: Ensuring timely dissemination of heat wave warnings by the India Meteorological Department (IMD) and training of health personnel on symptoms and treatment of HRI.
•Regular fire risk assessment: identifying vulnerable zones and taking preventive measures such as proper storage of flammable materials, optimal maintenance of electrical systems, and establishing standard operating procedures (SOPs) for emergency response to evacuate patients and staff during fires.
The ministry emphasized the importance of these guidelines for equipping healthcare facilities to better manage the dual threats of heat and potential fire hazards, ensuring comprehensive safety and care for all individuals during these extreme weather conditions.