PMA takes measures amid high heat index

The Philippine Military Academy on Friday said it had implemented measures to protect its cadets and personnel against the high heat index.

“Heat-related illnesses can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level or experience,” the PMA told GMA News Online.

“By staying vigilant and taking proactive steps to prevent heat-related illnesses, we can ensure the safety and well-being not only of our cadets but also of our personnel,” it added.

In previous years, some cadets of the PMA and the Philippine National Police Academy (PNPA) died due to heat stroke amid the extremely hot weather.

To avoid injuries, the PMA said personnel and cadets were advised to be familiar with the symptoms of heat-related illnesses and take preventive measures.

Cadets and personnel were taught to recognize the signs of heat-related illnesses and how to respond.

“Heat-related injuries can be prevented by staying hydrated, taking breaks, wearing appropriate clothing, avoiding peak sun hours,” the PMA said.

The PMA also promotes the “buddy system” which encourages cadets and personnel to look out for each other and monitor for any signs of distress.

“In any signs of heat-related injury, the first aid approach is applied, including spraying with water, and applying cold packs/towels in nape, armpits, forehead, or groin area,” the PMA said.

After first aid, cadets would be brought to the hospital for further evaluation and care.

Meanwhile, the PNPA told GMA News Online that so far there have been no reported heat-related injuries in the academy.

Asked if the academy would impose adjustments due to the high heat index, the PNPA said its “activities proceeded as scheduled.”

In its 5 p.m. forecast on Thursday, state weather bureau PAGASA said these areas were expected to have the highest heat index of up to 43 degrees Celsius:

• Tuguegarao City, Cagayan – 43 °C
• San Jose, Occidental Mindoro – 42 °C
• Puerto Princesa City, Palawan – 42 °C
• Aborlan, Palawan – 43 °C
• Dumangas, Iloilo – 42 °C
• Catarman, Northern Samar – 42 °C

Heat cramps and heat exhaustion are likely in areas experiencing a dangerous heat index, which is from 42 to 51°C. Heat stroke is also possible with continued exposure, PAGASA said.

According to PAGASA, heat index is the measure of the temperature that a person feels, which is different from the actual air temperature. It is computed by factoring in the humidity, as well as the air temperature.

Due to the high heat index, face-to-face classes on Friday were suspended in several areas across the country.

PAGASA declared the start of the El Niño phenomenon on July 4 last year.

The El Niño phenomenon is characterized by the abnormal warming of sea surface temperature in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean leading to below-normal rainfall. — DVM, GMA Integrated News