The Canary Islands Government has issued a red warning due to high temperatures in several municipalities located in the summit and southeast areas of Gran Canaria, as announced by the regional Ministry of Health this Friday.
The affected municipalities include Agüimes, Tejeda, Mogán, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, and Santa Lucía de Tirajana.
The red warning will be in effect for Agüimes and Tejeda from July 31st to August 1st.
For Mogán, San Bartolomé de Tirajana, Santa Lucía de Tirajana, and Tejeda, the days of greatest concern for high temperatures are July 30th and 31st, as well as August 1st.
In response to this situation, healthcare centers, emergency services, and town councils have been alerted to be prepared.
MEASURES AGAINST THE HOT WEATHER IN THE CANARY ISLANDS
To protect against the risks of high temperatures, it’s important to consider both personal and environmental factors. Vulnerability to heat includes age-related risk factors, such as being over 65 years old, infants, and pregnant women, as well as other health conditions and occupational factors.
For the vulnerable population, the following recommendations are particularly crucial:
-Seek cool, shaded, or air-conditioned areas and take breaks to cool down when needed.
-Minimize physical activity and avoid outdoor sports during the peak heat of the day.
-Stay well-hydrated by drinking water or fluids frequently, regardless of thirst or physical exertion.
-Avoid beverages that can contribute to dehydration, such as caffeinated, alcoholic, or very sugary drinks.
-Pay special attention to the needs of babies, children, pregnant or breastfeeding women, elderly individuals, and those with pre-existing health conditions that can be worsened by heat, including heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, cancer, mobility limitations, dementia, mental illnesses, and drug or alcohol abuse. However, everyone is at risk of heat-related problems.
-Opt for light, loose-fitting, and breathable clothing to remain comfortable in hot conditions.
-Never leave anyone, especially minors, the elderly, or those with chronic illnesses, in a parked and locked vehicle.
-Seek medical attention if experiencing symptoms related to high temperatures that last for more than one hour.
-Consume light meals containing salads, fruits, vegetables, and juices to replenish salts lost through sweating.
-Store medications in a cool place to prevent alterations in their composition and effects due to heat exposure.
