New Delhi: India is a subtropical country where heat and diurnal temperature influence everyone's life. April to July is a period of extreme rise in temperature and this acts as a catalyst for bacterial growth. With temperatures soaring as high as 45 degrees, people are falling sick easily due to the heatwaves.

Not all can afford health care measure or take the necessary precautions and most people are falling prey to the heat. Several reports from across India have declared cases of severe heatstroke, dehydration and heat cramps. Irrespective of age, people are facing the consequences of heat and temperature. Children and old people are more prone to heat related diseases.

Also read: No respite from heatwaves as monsoon is delayed: IMD

Doctors are releasing press statements and public safety announcements on precautionary measures that all people can take at a household level. Some of the best advices to survive this scorching summer are listed below:

1) Avoid any form of direct exposure to sunlight as much as possible. Try not to step out between 12 pm and 3 pm.

2) Use Sunscreen lotion before heading out or make sure you cover yourself using umbrellas, hats or towels. 

3) Summer is a breeding ground for bacteria and food hygiene is a must. Include liquids in your diet, like cold lemon water to ensure that your body is not dehydrated. Avoid eating outside food, especially street food, as they are mostly prepared in unhygienic conditions. Food and water-borne diseases are widespread during summers; children should wash their hands before eating.

4) Dehydration is very common in summer, as your body loses most of its minerals quickly. Hydrate yourself with at least 8-10 glasses of water a day. A lemon and honey drink can also work to instantly replenish body fluids. Avoid aerated soft drinks, instead drink buttermilk, fruit smoothies, sweet lassi, and fresh fruit juices.

5) Eat less and take frequent breaks. Do not eat too much food at a time. Start your day with a sweet, juicy fruit. Ripe summer fruits such as peaches, plums, melons, pears and citrus fruits are the right choice to beat the heat. Include salads in your diet - consume leafy lettuce, summer greens, corn on cob and cucumbers for salads. The body loses salt and water regularly and intake of salt should be maintained to ensure the right blood pressure. Avoid caffeine, alcohol or excessive tea as they tend to dehydrate the body.

6) Chose the right colours for summer in your clothing. Light colours have a tendency to reflect sunlight and absorb less heat, maintaining body temperature preventing sweating in excess. Wearing a hat or sunglasses is also helpful.

7) Summer is the season of sweating and exertion; one must avoid heavy exercises. If physical activities make you weak, ensure that you lie down straight for half an hour. This will allow the body to recover status-quo