6 Jul 2009
In anticipation of hot weather in the coming few days, the Department of Health (DH) today (July 6) reminded members of the public, particularly those engaging in outdoor activities, to take measures to prevent heat stroke and sunburn.
A spokesman for DH said members of the public should make sure that they bring and drink plenty of water to prevent water loss from sweating while engaged in outdoor activities.
He said that persons engaging in strenuous outdoor activities should avoid beverages containing caffeine (such as coffee and tea) and alcohol, since these will speed up water loss from the body through the urinary system.
"Particular attention should be paid to children, the elderly, the sick (including those with heart disease and high blood pressure) and obese persons who are more vulnerable to heat-related illnesses," the spokesman said.
He said that any person feeling unwell should stop immediately and seek medical advice as soon as possible.