Aproko doctor shares safety tips as NiMet issues heat stress warning to 19 states

• The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) issues heat stress warning in 19 states, the South-East, and coastal regions over the next few days
• In a post on X, Aproko Doctor shares safety tips to survive heat stress
• He warned that the heat stress can cause a heart attack and dizziness

Popular health advocate, Chinonso Egemba, also known as Aproko Doctor, has raised the alarm over the extreme heat currently affecting many parts of Nigeria, following a heat stress warning issued by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet). 

According to NiMet, rising temperatures and high humidity levels over the next three to four days will cause serious thermal discomfort, especially in 19 states, the Southwest, and coastal regions.

The states that would be mostly affected, according to the agency, are; North-central and Eastern states; Kebbi, Niger, Kwara, Oyo, Kogi, Nasarawa, Benue, Enugu, Anambra, Abia, Ebonyi, Cross River, and FCT.

Other vulnerable regions are the Southwest, coastal areas, Taraba, Adamawa, Plateau, Kaduna, Zamfara, and Sokoto.

The agency highlighted potential health risks associated with heat stress, including fatigue, irritability, reduced focus, impaired motor skills, and lower productivity.

To mitigate the impact, NiMet advised residents to:

• Stay cool by using fans, air conditioning, or shaded spaces.
• Wear light, breathable clothing.
• Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• Avoid exposure during peak sun hours (12 PM – 3 PM).
• Use sun protection, such as hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.

In a video shared on X (formerly Twitter), Aproko Doctor did not mince words about the dangers of the current heatwave. 

"The heat in Nigeria right now can actually kill somebody if we are not careful, especially if you live in the areas mentioned by NiMet," he cautioned. 

He explained that the major danger is heat stroke, which occurs when the body's temperature rises above 40 degrees Celsius because the body struggles to balance its temperature. 

"Heat stroke can cause heart attack and dizziness," he warned.

To avoid heat-related illnesses, Aproko Doctor advised Nigerians to take these precautions:

• Wear bright colours like white and yellow instead of dark clothes, as they reflect heat rather than absorb it.
• Drink at least one cup of water every hour or a minimum of 2-3 litres per day to stay hydrated.
• Stay indoors during peak sun hours (12 PM to 3 PM).
• Use fans or air conditioning and stay in shaded or cool areas.
• Take cool showers to lower body temperature.
• Avoid leaving children in parked cars, as they can overheat dangerously.
• Use sun protection, including hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen.
• Close windows during peak heat hours to prevent extra heat from entering the house.

Aproko Doctor emphasised that heat stress is not a joke, and Nigerians must take it seriously to avoid health complications like heat stroke, dizziness, and even heart attacks. 

He urged everyone to stay informed, protect themselves, and help those most vulnerable, such as children.

Surviving hot season in Nigeria: Essential tips for staying safe, healthy

In an earlier report, TheRadar shared some tips for staying safe and healthy during the hot weather in Nigeria. 

With extreme heat, the risks of dehydration, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke become real concerns.

Staying hydrated, dressing appropriately for the weather, protecting your skin, adapting your diet, and using cooling accessories are some of the surviving tips to stay safe and healthy during the hot season.