Preventing heatstroke in scorching Dalian

Crowds of residents and tourists escape summer heat at the Fujiazhuang seaside resort in Dalian, Liaoning province, on Aug 1. [Photo/dlxww.com]

July and August are the hottest months in China. The temperature of Wafangdian county in Dalian, Liaoning province reached 37.5 C on Aug 1, setting a new record of maximum temperature since the previous highest temperature of 37 C in 2004.

In the following several days, the average temperature in Dalian will remain between 27 C and 34 C. Dalian Meteorological Bureau has issued high temperature warning as the highest temperature in the downtown might reach from 35 C to 37 C. Such hot weather is estimated to continue until Aug 5.

Therefore, residents or visitors in Dalian have to be aware of the risk of heatstroke whose mortality rate might be 50 percent, or even up to 70 percent.

Heatstroke is a condition marked by fever and often by unconsciousness, caused by failure of the body’s temperature-regulating mechanism when exposed to excessively high temperatures.

Two types of people are susceptible to heatstroke: people working or exercising under the circumstance of high temperature and high humidity, and vulnerable children, pregnant women and the elderly.

To prevent heatstroke, people are suggested to stay cool indoors, eat more fresh vegetables and fruits, drink more water, and get enough rest.

When you have to go outside, don’t forget to take an umbrella and wear sunscreen for sun protection.

If you see a person getting a heatstroke, don’t forget to call 120 right away. Then, you have to cool down the body temperature of the patients by moving them to a cool and ventilated place and giving them an ice bath before medical staffs arrive. 

Workers are busy with bridge construction in Dalian on Aug 1. [Photo/dlxww.com]

Sanitation workers sweep the streets in Dalian, Aug 2. [Photo/dlxww.com]