At least 15 people died from heatstroke in 14 days till Sunday (May 05, 2024).The Health Emergency Operation Center and Control Room (HEOC & CR) of Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) confirmed the deaths. The DGHS reported the fatalities from the information it received at its control room till Sunday.Besides, one person died and three people suffered injuries due to heatstroke across the country in the past 24 hours till Monday morning. ‘Very severe heat wave’ grips 7 districts, says BMDThe DGHS started recording heatstroke related deaths from April 22.A mild to very severe heat wave swept through the country for about a month staring from first week of April. Later the temperature started to fall across the country after rains in the first week of the current month.The heat wave also forced the government to shut the primary and secondary schools, colleges and madrashas till May 2.Strategies for Cooling Your Roof During Intense Summer Heat

As summer temperatures soar, the heat can make indoor living conditions uncomfortable, particularly for those living on upper floors. The roof, directly exposed to the sun, plays a significant role in how heat affects the home. However, there are multiple strategies homeowners can implement to keep their roofs and homes cooler during intense heat waves. Tips to Keep Your Roof Cool During the Scorching Heat of Summer Selecting Appropriate Roofing Materials Choosing the right roofing materials is crucial in climates that experience intense summer heat, like Bangladesh. Materials that reflect solar energy rather than absorb it, such as metal, tiles, or specially designed reflective shingles, can significantly reduce heat absorption. These materials help maintain lower roof temperatures, which translates into cooler indoor environments. Utilizing Cool Roof Coatings Cool roof coatings are designed to reflect more sunlight and absorb less heat than standard roof surfaces. Applying these coatings can lower roof surface temperature dramatically, reducing heat transferred into the home and prolonging the lifespan of the roofing materials. These reflective coatings are an effective solution for homeowners looking to retrofit existing roofs without complete replacement. Read more: Tips to Keep Home Cool in Summer Without AC Enhancing Insulation Insulation plays a critical role in minimizing heat transfer from the roof to the home's interior. Effective attic or roof space insulation, using materials such as fiberglass, foam board, or cellulose, acts as a thermal barrier. This barrier helps stabilize indoor temperatures, making homes more comfortable during both day and night.

Summer is a time of heat and outdoor activities, but for pregnant women, it also brings the challenge of coping with intense heat waves that can pose serious health risks. From dehydration to heatstroke, the heightened vulnerability of expectant mothers requires careful strategies to ensure their health and that of their developing babies. This comprehensive guide explores practical and effective measures to safeguard pregnant women during these critical months. Understanding the Risks for Pregnant Women in Summer Pregnancy demands a lot from the body, which is already managing increased blood volume and the energy requirements of carrying a baby. In the summer, these challenges are compounded by higher temperatures and humidity, which can lead to faster dehydration and overheating. This increased susceptibility makes it essential to adopt preventive measures against heat-related health issues. Hydration: The First Line of Defense Against Heat Water is a vital ally for pregnant women during hot weather. Staying well-hydrated is crucial, as dehydration can trigger complications such as overheating, urinary tract infections, and even preterm labor. At least 8-10 glasses of water daily are recommended. Using a reusable water bottle makes it easier to stay hydrated on the go. Read more: How to Travel Safely During Heat Waves Electrolyte Management Alongside hydration, maintaining electrolyte balance is critical. Loss of electrolytes through sweating can be significant in summer. Electrolyte-rich drinks or adding a pinch of salt to water can help restore balance. Natural sources such as coconut water are also beneficial. It is important to check with a healthcare provider before incorporating new items into the diet, particularly if there are underlying health conditions. Choosing the Right Clothing Appropriate attire can significantly influence body temperature. Pregnant women should opt for loose, lightweight, and breathable clothing. Fabrics like cotton and linen are ideal as they allow air circulation and help prevent overheating. Read more: Summer Tips for School-going Children Light colors are preferable because they reflect sunlight, whereas dark colors absorb it, increasing heat retention. Comfortable, well-fitting shoes are also essential to accommodate swelling in the feet, a common issue during pregnancy. Sun Protection Strategies Sun protection is vital for preventing skin damage and managing body temperature. A wide-brimmed hat, UV-protective sunglasses, and sunscreen with at least SPF 30 are key to guarding against the harmful effects of UV radiation. Limiting Exposure to Extreme Heat It is advisable for pregnant women to minimize their time spent outdoors during peak heat hours—typically between 10 am and 4 pm. Planning activities during cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late evening, can reduce the risk of overheating. When outside, staying in shaded areas or using an umbrella can provide immediate relief from direct sunlight. Read more: How to Protect Outdoor Workers from Heat Stroke

Summer vacation presents a wonderful opportunity to explore new destinations. However, during the warmer months, soaring temperatures necessitate careful planning to ensure health safety, especially as many people travel for work, medical treatment, or personal reasons. Here are some effective tips for traveling safely during summer heat waves. Health Risks During Extreme Heat Waves Heat waves bring a range of health risks, from mild heat cramps and exhaustion to severe, potentially life-threatening heatstroke. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to dehydration and heat exhaustion, particularly affecting vulnerable groups such as the elderly, children, pregnant women, and those with pre-existing medical conditions. Recognizing the signs of heat-related illnesses is crucial. Symptoms may include headaches, dizziness, excessive sweating, weakness, nausea, and a rapid heartbeat. If you or someone you are traveling with experiences these symptoms, it's important to seek shade, rest, and rehydrate immediately. In severe cases, medical attention should be sought promptly. Read more: Summer Tips for School-going Children How to Stay Safe While Traveling During the Scorching Heat of Summer Planning Ahead Before embarking on your summer travels, careful planning is necessary. Check the weather forecast for your destination and schedule activities during the cooler parts of the day, typically early mornings and evenings. Be aware of any heat advisories or warnings and adjust your plans accordingly. Consider whether your accommodation has air conditioning, which can be crucial during heat waves. Dress Appropriately Opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing made from breathable fabrics like cotton or linen. Light colors, such as white or pastels, reflect sunlight and help keep you cool. Moisture-wicking garments can also reduce sweat and discomfort. Read more: Summer Drinks: Refreshing Homemade Sherbets to Beat the Heat Stay Hydrated Water is vital in the heat. To combat dehydration, a common risk during hot weather, drink plenty of fluids. Carry a refillable water bottle and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel thirsty. Avoid sugary or caffeinated beverages, as they can lead to further dehydration.

As the summer heatwave continues, the risk of heat exhaustion and dehydration becomes a concern. Like adults, children can suffer from severe heat-related illnesses. Therefore, parents and caregivers should be cautious, especially for school-going children who stay outside the home for hours. Here are some essential summer tips to ensure the well-being of school-going children during the hot months.  How to Keep School-going Children Healthy During Summer Heat Waves Stay Hydrated Ensuring children stay hydrated is crucial during a heatwave. Parents and caregivers should encourage children to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, focusing on water as the primary source of hydration. It would be wise to avoid serving children sugary or caffeinated beverages that can contribute to dehydration. While leaving for school, it is necessary to provide children water bottles and remind them to take regular sips, even if they are not feeling thirsty. Offer water-rich fruits and vegetables like watermelon, cucumber, and oranges as healthy snacks to help keep children hydrated. Read more: How to Protect Outdoor Workers from Heat Stroke Dress Appropriately Lightweight, loose-fitting clothing of breathable fabrics like cotton or linen can help children stay cool. It is highly recommended to opt for light-coloured clothes that reflect sunlight rather than dark colours that absorb heat. Furthermore, while staying outdoors children can wear wide-brimmed hats and sunglasses to protect their faces and eyes from the sun's harmful rays. Seek Shade  Children might need to stay outdoors for diverse purposes, like waiting for a school bus. During such situations, children should be encouraged to seek shade or canopies to minimise direct exposure to the sun. Read more: How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage Apply Sunscreen Liberally Sunscreen application is another crucial aspect of sun protection. Like adults, children can use broad-spectrum sunscreen with a high SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of at least 30. Before going to school or other places, kids need to apply sunscreens generously to their exposed skin, including the face, neck, arms, and legs. Nowadays many reputed brands produce child-friendly sunscreen products. Sunscreen should be reapplied every two hours, or more frequently if children are swimming or sweating heavily. Parents and caregivers should teach children how to apply sunscreen properly and encourage them to build their sun protection routine. Plan Outdoor Activities Wisely While planning schedules for active outdoor games and sports during the warmer months, parents should pay attention to the matter that children stay safe from overheating or sunburn. However, when planning outdoor activities, it's essential to schedule them during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon, to avoid the peak heat hours. Read more: Summer Drinks: Refreshing Homemade Sherbets to Beat the Heat Caregivers should guide children to play in shaded areas, such as parks with plenty of trees, or bring portable shade structures like pop-up tents or sun umbrellas to prevent sunburn and heat-related illnesses. While playing, sweat should be wiped off immediately. Additionally, encouraging regular play breaks in shaded areas allows children to rest and hydrate. It is essential to prevent heat-related illnesses.  Stay Indoors During Peak Heat During extreme heat, it is best to stay indoors in air-conditioned or well-ventilated spaces for children to avoid heat-related illnesses. It would be thoughtful for the parents and caregivers to plan indoor activities like board games, arts and crafts, or movie marathons to keep children entertained and safe from the heat.  Read more: Beat Dehydration with These Summer Vegetables Educate About Heat-Related Illnesses It is essential to teach children about the signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses, such as heat exhaustion, heatstroke, dizziness, nausea, rapid heartbeat, etc. Parents and caregivers should teach children to speak up if they are feeling unwell and remind them of the importance of seeking help from a trusted adult if they experience any symptoms of heat-related illness. Use Cooling Strategies Implementing cooling strategies like taking cool showers or baths, using fans or air conditioning, and applying cold compresses to the skin can help children beat the heat and stay comfortable indoors.  Read more: Heat Stroke Prevention: Best foods, drinks to avoid heat exhaustion Parents and caregivers can freeze damp washcloths or water bottles and place them on pulse points like the wrists, neck, and temples to help lower the body temperature of the children. It can make their mind and body cool after returning home from school or outdoors during the heat waves. Regular Baths Bathing plays a vital role in maintaining cleanliness. It is important to avoid allowing children to drink or bathe in ice-cold water during hot weather. Instead, offer them water at room temperature or slightly cool.  When bathing, use water at a comfortable temperature, neither too hot nor too cold, to avoid shocking their system.  Read more: Heat Stroke: Symptoms, First Aid, and Prevention Stay Connected Staying connected with children, caregivers, and school staff during a heatwave is essential for assuring everyone's safety. Keep lines of communication open with children, caregivers, and school staff during summer. Sharing information about heat safety tips and encouraging everyone to look out for each other helps create a supportive environment where everyone can stay cool, hydrated, and healthy during hot weather.  Thus, parents and caregivers can minimise the risk of heat-related illnesses in children at home, community space, school, playground, or other places. Read more: Guidelines issued for primary schools reopening tomorrow amid heatwave Bottom Lines Implementing summer safety for school-going children during a heatwave is paramount to their well-being and health. Parents, caregivers, and school staff can help mitigate the risks associated with hot weather, by prioritising hydration, sun protection, appropriate clothing, and staying cool indoors during peak heat hours.  Educating children about heat-related illnesses and empowering them to recognise signs of distress is equally important. By working together and staying aware, the wellbeing and health safety of school children can be assured during the summer months. Read more: Mist Fan Buyer Guide and Price Ranges in Bangladesh for 2024

As the country grapples with an intense heatwave, the government has announced the reopening of primary school academic activities starting Sunday, April 28.  The Primary and Mass Education Ministry, through a notification signed by Senior Information Officer Mahbubur Rahman Tuhin, outlined the operational adjustments to accommodate the sweltering conditions. School hours will be limited to the cooler morning hours, from 8:00 am to 11:30 am. For schools operating in two shifts, the first shift will run from 8:00 am to 9:30 am and the second from 9:45 am to 11:30 am.  Cuet students’ road safety movement postponed, to resume classes Despite these changes, pre-primary level classes will remain closed until further notice, and daily school assemblies will be suspended to avoid prolonged exposure to the heat. The decision follows a similar action taken for secondary level schools and colleges, which are set to reopen on the same day, April 28.  The resumption comes after an extended closure initially planned until April 27 due to the prolonged hot weather following the Eid holidays. Outdoor activities and those requiring sun exposure at these institutions will continue to be limited. To make up for educational disruptions caused by the heatwave and other interruptions, classes will also be conducted on Saturdays until further notice, according to the ministry's notification. Secondary schools, colleges to reopen April 28 amid heat wave The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has forecasted that the current heatwave conditions, which recorded a high of 42.7 degrees Celsius in Chuadanga on Friday, may persist for another 72 hours starting Thursday morning. The government's proactive measures aim to balance educational needs with health and safety concerns during this challenging climate period.

The Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD) has issued a warning that the ongoing heatwave is likely to persist for 72 hours starting Thursday (April 25, 2024) morning. The BMD cites increased moisture incursion as a factor contributing to the sustained uncomfortable conditions. Met office issues heat alert for another 72 hours This announcement follows earlier alerts issued on April 19 and April 22, as the BMD continues to monitor and respond to the challenging weather patterns affecting the region. 25-year-old dies of heatstroke in Ctg

Bangladesh is currently going through mild to severe heat waves. Due to the scorching sun and heat, many people are experiencing heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, etc. Not to mention, the extremely hot weather has accelerated the sales of air conditioners. However, not everyone can afford AC due to its initial and operational costs. Nowadays, mist fans are gaining popularity as cost-effective cooling gadgets to beat the heat. It can be an affordable solution to stay cool without breaking the bank.   What’s the Difference Between a Mist Fan and an Air Conditioner? There’s a common marketing trope that mist fans are mini air conditioners. But the truth is that mist fans and air conditioners are different things and they work on different principles.  Mist fans atomize the water and disperse in the air. The dispersed water particles quickly evaporate by absorbing the heat from the surroundings. This rapid evaporation causes a cooling effect, lowering the ambient temperature in the surrounding area.  On the other hand, air conditioners cool an area by removing the heat and humidity from the air. It uses the refrigeration principle to replace the hot air inside in a cyclic manner.  Mist fans can reduce the temperature by 3-4 degrees Celcius in a semi-open or open environment. On the other hand, air conditioners can drastically reduce the temperature as they work best in an enclosed environment. Though mist fans are not alternatives to ACs, these cooling gadgets can give comfort by cooling the room temperature spreading mists and air. Read more: Heat Stroke Prevention: Best foods, drinks to avoid heat exhaustion What to Consider Before Buying a Mist Fan?  There are several things to consider while buying the perfect mist fan. With tons of options available in the market, here’s a list of things you should check before buying one.  Portability and Size  One of the key things to consider is the need for portability of your mist fan. Do you need to move it around or will it remain stationary at one place? Depending on portability, mist fans come in several sizes. It is recommended to choose one that best fits your use case.  Misting Level  The misting capacity is another thing to consider while getting a mist fan. If you plan to use the fan outdoors, it is recommended to buy a fan with a high water reserve and high misting capacity.  Mist Fan Coverage  The size and misting capacity of a mist fan greatly determines the coverage area. If you want to cover a small area, then portable type mist fans can be a great choice. When you want to cover a large area from a stationary position, consider getting a pedestal-type mist fan.  Read more: Heat Stroke: Symptoms, First Aid, and Prevention Fan Speed and Functions Mist fans come with different functions at different price points. A basic mist fan may provide different fan speeds but an advanced and more expensive fan may have different wind modes and mist control.  Noise Level  Large mist fans (pedestal type) make a lot of noise which can be problematic for indoor use. If you’re planning to buy a mist fan for your home, it would be wise to go for a portable or a smaller one as they tend to make less noise compared to the large pedestal ones.  Power Source  The power source is another thing to consider while buying a mist fan. For example, if you want to use the mist fan outdoors, it needs to have a battery charge feature. Many indoor mist fans also come with a dual power feature.  Rechargeability Rechargeable mist fans can work for several hours without electricity. Depending on the specifications, these kinds of mist fans need to be connected to power lines for hours to get recharged. During power cuts and load sheddings, a charged mist fan can spread cool air and mists to keep you cool. Read more: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe Durability  The durability of the fan plays an important role, especially if you are planning to use it outdoors. As a rule of thumb, sturdy, metal-built mist fans would be better for outdoor use whereas plastic ones would suffice for indoor conditions. Additional Features  Many mist fans these days come with additional features like insect repellant, air purification, and even LED lights. You can assess each feature based on your usage.  Price and Warranty  And last but not least, it is recommended to double-check the price and warranty. Additional things to check include user reviews and brand reputation to make sure you’re getting the bang for your buck. 

The scorching heat of summer can be relentless, making it essential to find ways to stay cool and hydrated. While the allure of roadside summer drinks is undeniable, they often come with health risks due to questionable ingredients and hygiene standards. Fortunately, there is a safer and more delicious alternative – homemade sherbets. Let's explore 10 revitalising sherbet recipes to try this summer to fight heat related illnesses. 10 Homemade Sherbet Recipes to Beat Dehydration This Summer Raw Mango Sherbet Aam Panna, or raw mango sherbet, is a quintessential summer drink in Bangladesh for combating the sweltering heat packed with both flavour and health benefits. Made from raw mangoes, it presents a tantalising blend of tartness and sweetness. This refreshing beverage is rich in vitamins A and C, essential for maintaining hydration and boosting immunity.  To make Aam Panna, simply blend raw boiled, peeled mangoes with mint leaves, roasted cumin powder, black salt, sugar, and water until smooth. To impart a smoky nuance, consider roasting the mangoes beforehand. Serve chilled over ice for a revitalising treat that not only quenches thirst but also replenishes electrolytes and provides a burst of tropical goodness. Read more: How to Protect Outdoor Workers from Heat Stroke Tamarind Sherbet Tamarind sherbet offers a tangy and refreshing escape from the scorching summer heat. Rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C and potassium it offers a sweet-tart punch. It aids in replenishing electrolytes lost during sweating, thus combating dehydration.  To prepare this invigorating drink, combine tamarind pulp with water, sugar or honey, and a dash of salt. Allow the mixture to steep with a cinnamon stick, then strain and chill before serving over ice. Indulge in the zesty flavour and hydrating benefits of tamarind sherbet to stay cool and refreshed all summer long. Rose Petal Sherbet Rose petal sherbet embodies a fragrant and floral essence, offering a delightful respite from summer's heat. While lower in electrolytes than some options, it can provide some hydration and is a lovely source of antioxidants. Rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, it supports hydration and boosts immunity.  Read more: Beat Dehydration with These Summer Vegetables To concoct this rejuvenating elixir, steep fresh rose petals in water, then strain and mix with sugar or honey and a splash of lemon juice. Serve chilled over ice for a cooling sensation that not only tantalises the taste buds but also replenishes vital fluids lost through perspiration. Sip on rose petal sherbet to invigorate your senses and combat dehydration effortlessly. Bael Sherbet Bael sherbet, a summer delight, boasts a unique flavour and impressive health benefits. Made with the pulp of the wood apple (bael), it offers a sweet-tart taste with a hint of citrus. This golden drink is a powerhouse of Vitamin C, supporting immunity and fighting inflammation.  But bael truly shines in its role against dehydration.  The pulp is rich in fibre and natural electrolytes, helping your body retain fluids and recover from sweat loss.  To create this revitalising drink, simply mash the pulp of a ripe bael with water, strain, and add sugar or honey to taste.  A pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice complete this refreshing and rehydrating summer beverage.  Read more: How to Protect Your Skin and Hair from Sun Damage Watermelon Sherbet Cool off with watermelon sherbet, a naturally hydrating summer treat. Made with blended watermelon, this refreshing pink drink is packed with water, making it a delicious weapon against dehydration.  Watermelon boasts vitamins A, B6, and C, as well as potassium and lycopene. It supports immunity and healthy vision.  The recipe is simple: freeze seedless watermelon cubes, then blend them smooth with a touch of lime juice or honey for extra zing. Enjoy this refreshing sherbet for a hydrating and nutritious summer. 

The scorching heat waves can pose serious health risks, especially for people who stay outdoors for long hours due to occupation. During hot weather situations in summer, people working under the sun may suffer from heat-related illnesses like dehydration, heatstroke, etc. Let’s explore some effective tips to safeguard outdoor workers from the debilitating effects of heat waves. What is Heatstroke? Heat stroke is a severe heat-related illness characterised by a body temperature of 104°F (40°C) or higher. It arises when your body overheats and the body's internal temperature regulation system fails, typically due to prolonged exposure to high temperatures or strenuous physical activity and dehydration. It is most prevalent during the summer season.  Immediate medical attention is necessary for heatstroke. If left untreated, it can swiftly lead to damage to vital organs such as the brain, heart, kidneys, and muscles. Delaying treatment exacerbates the damage, heightening the risk of severe complications or even death. Read more: Summer Heatwave: Here’s How to Keep Children Safe Symptoms of Heat Stroke The most common symptoms of heatstroke include: - High body temperature (above 104°F or 40°C)- Altered mental state, such as confusion or disorientation- Nausea and vomiting- Flushed or red skin- Rapid breathing- Rapid heartbeat. Read more: Heat Stroke Prevention: Best foods, drinks to avoid heat exhaustion