Pulwama, Dec 13 (KNO): In view of the prevailing harsh winter conditions and the increasing impact of cold waves across the district, the Office of the Deputy Commissioner Pulwama who also heads the district as Chairman of the District Disaster Management Authority (DDMA) Saturday issued a detailed advisory outlining precautionary measures to minimise risks to life, health and livelihoods.
The advisory highlights that extreme cold can adversely affect public health, agriculture, livestock and overall safety, and calls upon residents to remain vigilant and well-prepared throughout the winter season.
An official from the district administration said the instructions have been issued in the interest of public safety and must be followed in letter and spirit.
“Cold wave conditions pose serious risks, particularly to children, the elderly, persons with disabilities and those suffering from respiratory ailments. Preparedness and timely precautions can prevent avoidable tragedies,” the official said.
The advisory stresses the importance of adequate preparation for severe cold, advising people to wear layered clothing including caps, gloves, scarves, warm socks and water-resistant jackets and footwear. Residents have been asked to stay dry, avoid prolonged exposure to cold, and seek shelter whenever outdoors.
People are also advised to stock essential food items, winter supplies and medicines in advance, maintain a well-equipped first aid kit at home, and consume warm food and fluids regularly to maintain body temperature.
Special instructions have been issued for schools, workplaces and labour-intensive sectors. Authorities have been directed to ensure proper heating arrangements in classrooms and offices, availability of first aid boxes in public places, and provision of protective gear, warm rest areas and flexible work schedules for labourers.
The advisory also calls for safe use of heating devices in well-ventilated rooms, insulation of water pipes to prevent freezing, and extra caution for patients with respiratory or pulmonary disorders. People have been asked to avoid unnecessary travel on frost-covered roads or during periods of low visibility and to strictly follow official weather and safety advisories.
Livestock owners have been urged to ensure adequate shelter, food and water for animals during the winter months.
For emergencies related to extreme cold and snowfall, the district administration has activated the Winter Control Room. Residents can seek immediate assistance by contacting the following numbers: 01933-242442, 01933-240354, 9419428952, 9419428953, 9797198033 and 9103806812.
The administration has cautioned residents against unnecessary outdoor movement during extreme cold, particularly in early mornings and late evenings. People have been warned not to stand under trees, electric poles or unstable structures during snowfall and to avoid wearing wet clothes.
The advisory strictly prohibits the use of charcoal, generators or fuel-based heaters indoors without proper ventilation due to the risk of suffocation. Residents have also been asked not to consume snow or frozen water, store flammable fuels indoors, or use wet electrical appliances.
Travel during dense fog or poor visibility should be avoided, and people have been cautioned against trekking or movement in avalanche-prone areas. The administration has further advised against relying on unauthenticated weather information and stressed the need for proper ventilation in living spaces.
Other warnings include not leaving fires unattended, avoiding open fires near vegetation, ensuring vehicles are fit for winter travel, and not neglecting animals during harsh weather conditions.
The district administration has appealed to the public to remain alert, extend care to vulnerable sections of society, and immediately seek help in case of any emergency. “Collective responsibility and timely action can significantly reduce the risks associated with extreme winter conditions,” the advisory noted—(KNO)