Flip through the latest issue of Gulf Weekly.
The summer vacation is finally around the corner and by 'summer' I am referring to the months of July and August.
We, Bahrainis at least, are used to the exhausting summer heat waves year after year. However, last week was really something else! We saw temperatures of 47-48 degrees and we are still a month away from the usual summer months.
I was driving around with my father and even with the AC full on, I still felt the summer heat get to me through the car windows. Even a walk to the cold store left me sweating and, mind you, this was after the sun had already set and still hours before the moon was clearly showing!
I can't help but wonder whether this sudden heat flare is a phenomenon created due to the global warming effect, aggravated by human beings or it is simply a natural phenomenon in which science and nature is taking its natural course.
Whatever it may be, I was very worried about the safety of my fellow Bahrainis. I realise that summer is the time when everyone simply just wants to go outside; be it to the beaches, the parks or even for a stroll at the malls. However, anything can happen during the heat of the moment (pun intended) and therefore I think all of us should take precautions when we're out and about in Bahrain.
The first thing that comes to mind is the cases that I have read about and watched on TV, where parents leave their child or children in the car.
Whether the car is locked or unlocked, it is still extremely dangerous under such hot conditions. Therefore please, please take your children with you when you park your car to run off to do that little errand, even if it (the errand) only takes you 10 minutes.
Also, keep in mind that constant hydration is a must during the peak hours of a summer day. Heat stroke and dehydration can easily overwhelm a person, therefore keep a bottle of warm or cool water beside you at all times.
When shopping these days at the local souq or having a walk in an open market, don't forget to take that little sip of water from time to time and try your level best to find a shaded area to shelter yourself even for five minutes.
I realise I am not an expert in this area, but such petty measures can make a huge difference! Take care Bahrain and shade yourselves this summer!
