IAKMI Urges Greater Public Protection from Heat Stroke During Hot Weather

The Indonesian Public Health Experts Association (IAKMI) is urging stronger protection for the public from the risk of heat stroke during hot weather through the provision of safer environments in public spaces and workplaces.

Chairman of the IAKMI Central Board, Dr. Hermawan Saputra, SKM., MARS., CICS., said that efforts to prevent heat stroke do not depend solely on individual action, but also need to be supported by environments that can reduce heat exposure.

“If the government’s preventive measures are in the form of appeals, of course,” said Hermawan when contacted by ANTARA on Thursday.

He cited the provision of cooling facilities in open areas as one form of effort to help people who are active amid heat exposure.

According to him, such facilities can help people active in public spaces, especially in areas with high pedestrian activity and minimal protection from direct sunlight.

Hermawan said a number of countries have also introduced innovations to help people cope with hot temperatures. He cited the provision of fans in open areas in several cities in China as an example.

Beyond public spaces, he stressed the importance of protection for workers carrying out activities in high-temperature environments.

Work environments, especially factories and industries with high production intensity, need to be supported by clean and comfortable air conditions, good air circulation, and controlled temperatures, he said.

He said workers with heavy physical activity and high heat exposure are a group that needs attention because they face a greater risk of heat-related health problems.

Hermawan added that the public also needs to take protective measures independently, including meeting fluid intake needs, reducing activities with direct sun exposure, and using protective clothing and hats when having to be active outdoors.