I HAVE been describing the sun and heat. We’ve been experiencing the heat in so many adjectives lately that I can’t seem to keep up with myself. The place is notably hotter than usual. We’re used to those tropical breezes with the sun out, just enough to feel warm and comfy, but the heat we’ve been experiencing lately is far from that. I have found myself panting for breath, sweating profusely, and feeling lightheaded. I tend to get exhausted more than usual and working in these environments without an air-conditioning system and/or proper working fan is a dangerous “sport” to play. We aren’t living through it. We’re trying to survive it. It might sound exaggerated, but can you imagine what it must be like for the elderly and children as well? Or, how about those who can’t afford electricity and depend on a crack in their windows?

Everybody has their fair share of how the heat affects them and their daily lives–some may have more effects than others. Nonetheless, you should always remember to stay hydrated. Water is essential during these heated times. You may have to drink more water than usual, but it’s still the most effective way to prevent physical fatigue. You can also avoid extra heat sources such as gas ovens, certain light bulbs, and heat-related home appliances. You can also try cool baths or use damp rags on your head to “cool” off. A nice icy bath sounds really good right about now for most of us, I am sure of it. Lastly, you should be aware of how to recognize certain health-related illnesses. They aren’t to be taken lightly and I urge you all to understand what they are—heat rashes, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat cramps.

Apart from us doing our individual parts in ensuring that we cope and manage in the heat, our policy makers also need national responses. It may sound silly, but most of what we’re experiencing is the result of global warming. It’s no longer a text we read from books or newspapers; we’re experiencing its effects all around and it should not be ignored. Not every public building is equipped to handle the heat of our regular temperatures, much less increasing ones that may arise. With the intense heat comes frustration, exhaustion and fatigue. Even with the temperatures now declining, how can we handle such a phenomenon yet again? Are we even prepared for what’s to come as it relates to very dry seasons and its effects?
Recently, in New Amsterdam, there was smoke pollution from the town’s dumpsite that was set ablaze. The fire got out of control and it is my assumption that the very dry season and lack of rainfall caused such a thing to occur in the first place. What systems are in place for the agricultural system, specifically small-scale farmers with rising temperatures and no rainfall? These are all things we ought to keep in mind now and for the future. Some days the sun can be our friend, but on other days, its extreme heat waves can impact our quality of life tremendously. As such, we have to keep abreast with ways in which we can help ourselves, help others and also sustainable ways in which we can also help our planet in the process. We can survive this heat together, we just have to work together to do so.