Skopje, 12 July 2023 (MIA) - Starting Thursday and until Sunday, the entire territory of North Macedonia is gripped by temperatures of the orange alert, leading to the introduction of measures and recommendations for protection from high temperatures during the next four days, the Government has decided.

The Government reviewed the Health Ministry report on high temperatures expected in the coming four days and adopted specific recommendations.

The Government recommends exemption of most at-risk groups from work, such as pregnant women and persons over the age of 60; children in kindergartens to stay indoors between 11:00-17:00h; local self-government units, the Red Cross and social work centers to have a proactive approach and provide assistance to elderly persons and homeless; considering that certain risk products and technological processes can pose a health risk to exposed workers, employers are reminded on their duty to observe regulations in the field.

The Government has decided that state authorities and public enterprises observe the recommendations, also recommending the private sector to organize the working hours towards protecting people from direct sun exposure of workers.

Citizens are advised to spend as much time in air-conditioned spaces and take lots of breaks in the shade if they have to spend time outside, as well as wear light clothing, sunglasses and hats to avoid direct sun exposure. Wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, eating less and mostly fruits and vegetables, drinking water and avoiding alcoholic beverages is also recommended. Before driving in the heat, vehicles have to be aired out. Due to the heat wave, there’s also an increased risk of food poisoning. Authorities urge people to wash thoroughly fruits and vegetables before eating and cook all other foods.

Photo: MIA archive