Scientist Launches Heatwave Prevention For Students Amid Extreme Weather Conditions

In response to the ongoing extreme heatwave affecting the region, Nuruddeen Bello, a microbiologist and Director of the Womanhood School of Health Science and Technology, has spearheaded a sensitization program aimed at educating students on how to prevent heat-related health problems.

During the event, held at the school, Bello highlighted the significance of maintaining hydration and staying cool to mitigate the risks associated with extreme temperatures.

He raised concerns about the potential health consequences of heatwaves, including an increased likelihood of diseases such as meningitis, which pose a serious threat to the local community during the scorching season.

Bello provided students with crucial advice on how to cope with the heat, recommending they wear light, loose-fitting clothing, take cool showers, and use foot baths with cool water to enhance comfort. 

He emphasized the effective use of electric fans in indoor settings, especially when temperatures soar above 39-40°C.

“Locally made hand fans can also be an effective way to stay cool in communities and informal settlements,” Bello stated, highlighting the importance of simple, accessible tools in combating extreme heat.

He urged students to keep windows and doors open to maintain airflow and to be vigilant for signs of dehydration, such as thirst, dry mouth, fatigue, and changes in urine color and frequency.

In addition to practical tips for personal well-being, Bello encouraged students to stay updated with weather forecasts and heatwave alerts through various media outlets, including television, radio, and online platforms. 

He also provided suggestions for cooling homes, including the installation of reflective coatings, insulation, and external window coverings such as awnings and shade cloths. Planting trees around houses for shade was highlighted as an effective long-term strategy.

Aware of the impact of physical exertion in high temperatures, Bello strongly advised against strenuous activities during peak heat hours, stressing that such exertion heightens the risk of heat-related health issues.

Looking to the future, Bello announced plans to establish climate clubs at the school aimed at fostering awareness of environmental issues and encouraging sustainable practices among students. 

These clubs will educate students through workshops, guest lectures, and field trips, facilitating a deeper understanding of ecological challenges while promoting environmentally friendly habits.

Community engagement initiatives, including recycling drives and tree planting events, will also be organized to involve the wider school community in environmental protection efforts.

Bello however concluded by emphasizing the essential role of climate and environmental clubs in nurturing sustainability in schools, encouraging students to become conscientious individuals prepared to face future ecological challenges.

Through this initiative, he hopes to empower the younger generation with knowledge and tools necessary for safeguarding their environment and health.