Public warned to plan New Year games carefully

Outdoor New Year games must be organised with careful planning due to the extreme heat typical of April, the Sports Medicine Unit advised. Dr. Dhammika Senanayake issued several guidelines to prevent health complications during the festive season.

Temperatures between 27°C and 32°C require caution, while levels exceeding 41°C are considered extremely dangerous. Dr. Senanayake warned that people with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and children under 12 are particularly vulnerable to heat-related issues.

Organisers are urged to avoid scheduling outdoor competitions between 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM when solar radiation is strongest. Key recommendations include:

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  Ensuring participants drink plenty of water and stay in the shade whenever possible.

  
  


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  Arranging for immediate first aid and medical services at event sites.

  
  


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  Scheduling physically demanding events, such as cross-country races and marathons, early in the morning.

  
  


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  Monitoring participants in bicycle races for potential heat exhaustion.