The Department of Health (DOH) reminds the public to be wary of dehydration which is the common cause of heat stroke.

To avoid dehydration and heat stroke, DOH-Cordillera Local Health Support Division head, Dr. Amelita Pangilinan, in an interview, advised the public to avoid staying directly under sun, especially during the hotter time of the day or from 10:00 AM to 3:00PM. If they really need to go out they should bring protective gears like umbrella and wear lighter clothes.

Pangilinan also advised for people to drink a lot of water, and eat fruits that are rich in water and potassium.

For people who experience heat stroke, Pangilinan said they should go indoors or to a shaded area and lie down with their feet elevated, loosen their clothes and apply ice packs to armpits, wrists, ankles and groin.

According to Pangilinan, usual symptoms of heat stroke are feeling hot, weak, headache and dizziness.

Pangilinan also warned against water and food borne diseases which are also common during summer time. She reiterated to the public to ensure a clean source of drinking and cooking water as well as to regularly practice good hygiene.

She noted that many people who came from outings usually get skin allergies and diarrhea thus she issued the following reminders.

For those who are taking vacation or going to the beach for a friendly or family outing, be wary of prickly heat or skin allergies as well as to be critical of the cleanliness of the swimming pool water, in terms of its chlorine content and pool maintenance. In addition, bring plenty of clean drinking water and ensure that the food they bring along are not those easily spoil. They should not pack the food while it is still hot, she said.

Pangilinan reminds to always practice safety travel precautions such as checking the vehicles and practice safe driving.

As the Health Department always reminds the public, prevention is always better than cure, Pangilinan stressed. (JDP/LD-PIA CAR)