10 Ways to Stay Safe and Healthy During Harmattan

Harmattan presents unpleasant weather conditions coupled with devastating fire outbreaks. The harsh weather is accompanied by severe fever, flu, headaches, coughs, cold, sore throat, sneezing and catarrh.

You have to debunk myths that Christmas is a season for road accidents and make responsible choices to stay alive. Passengers are to prepare adequately for their travels using the safest transport.

This weird weather reduces visibility that leads to impaired navigation in road transport, aviation and maritime activities. Transport terminals are advised to adhere to weather alerts from meteorological services to reduce the risk of accidents.

There are clear indications that our version of the winter season will affect man and the environment. The lead natural disaster amid the dry and dusty winds from the Sahara is fire. For people living in farming communities, setting out fire during land preparation may cause havoc.

Below are 10 critical precautions to take;

1. Reduce exposure to dust

Use nose mask or cover nostrils with a clean piece of cloth or handkerchief. Wear protective spectacles to protect the eye.

2. Drink more water

A decline in humidity increases water loss in your body. Drink potable water frequently to keep your body hydrated.

3. Hygiene is key

Dry winds serve as a medium for airborne diseases like swine flu, meningitis, catarrh and chicken pox. Ensure vulnerable individuals are sanitized before and after sharing contact with others.

4. Dress warm

In a cold weather, your body constantly losing water. Wear cold resistant clothing like vests, gloves, cardigans and beanies.

5. Moisturize

Use certified moisturizers to reduce evaporation of the skin. A popular local champion is shea butter alias “Nkuto”. Prevent chapped lips with desirable lip balms and enjoy your light soup without any problem.

6. Adhere to weather alerts

Drivers need to be extra careful during harmattan as visibility is reduced to over 50%. Fishermen should prepare adequately to combat gruesome weather conditions at sea.

7. Avoid bush fires

The arid and windy weather is conducive for wild fires. Farmers are to monitor and control blazing vegetation using farm belts.

8. Keep domestic fire under control

We must keep flaring objects under control during this period. Fire crackers (knockouts) may set houses ablaze. Keep flammable materials away from curious children to prevent fire outbreaks.

9. Purchase a fire extinguisher and learn how to use

Wild fires do not have boundaries. House owners, tenants and shop keepers are encouraged to acquire appropriate fire safety equipment. Learn to use fire extinguishers properly to save lives.

10. Ensure proper disposal of harmful substances

Burning waste can be catastrophic during harmattan. Fumes released from vehicles linger in the air for longer periods causing respiratory disorders. Improve ventilation and stay away from crowded zones.

Let’s take care of ourselves and the surrounding environment. Remember to address unsafe practices during this extensive cold and dry season. Protect yourself and be a steward of the environment.

Do you want to be a Ghana Environmental Community Volunteer? Send your name, phone number and location to our.gheco@gmail.com