SAFETY AND HEALTH TIPS DURING DUST STORM
Health tips: Dos and don’ts
■ Avoid stepping out in the heat and dust conditions. The humidity can cause difficulty in breathing while the fine sand particles can trigger respiratory infections.
■ If you must, make sure to wear a facemask. it will help in filtering out fine sand particles and other particulate matter.
■ Those with respiratory conditions must completely stay within air-conditioned rooms.
■ Consult your family physician or nearest pulmonologists in case of slightest distress.
■ Clean out air-conditioner ducts and filter for better indoor air quality.
Driving
■ Ensure that all your car headlights work well.
■ Be careful while driving in dusty weather and reduce your speed while switching lanes.
■ Close your windows and turn on the AC.
Driving in the rain
■ Check the validity of the brakes, tyres and headlights of your vehicle before starting your journey.
■ Make sure your wipers work well.
■ Double the safety distance between you and the vehicle ahead.
■ Drive slowly so you can keep control of your car and not worry about having to stop suddenly behind other vehicles.
■ Follow traffic signs and do not instantly press on the accelerator when the traffic light turns green so you do not lose control on the slippery roads.
■ Driving in the rain requires you to focus more.
■ Do not overtake other vehicles except in ideal conditions.
Other precautions
■ Avoid walking next to trees, under-construction sites, and temporary fences.
■ Fix your outdoor furniture tightly to the ground and remove flammable objects until stable weather conditions.
■ Remove any tools, equipment or belongings from the balconies.
■ Close doors and windows to prevent dust from entering [homes and workplaces].
Driving during foggy weather
■ Stay to the right side of your lane to stay clear from vehicles coming from the opposite direction.
■ Keep an eye on your speed and ensure you have your fog lights on.
■ Use your vehicle signals when necessary to warn vehicles coming from behind.
■ Do not drive with your high beam lights as it reduces the visibility, instead drive with your fog lights on.
■ If you have to stop your car, park it on the side of the road away from passing cars and ensure to turn your hazard lights on.
■ Relieve pressure on the accelerator and use the brakes if necessary.