The Meteorological Department denies circulating information that temperatures will reach 45 degrees Celsius on August 1st, urging media outlets to obtain meteorological information and weather forecasts from the correct and official sources. It noted that the average temperatures for July range between 24 and 32 degrees Celsius in Beirut.
In this context, the General Directorate of Civil Defense issued a warning today, Wednesday, to citizens and residents, emphasizing the necessity of adhering to public safety guidelines. It stated: "Based on the weather bulletin issued by the Meteorological Department, which indicated the continued influence of hot air masses currently located over the Arabian Peninsula on Lebanon and the Eastern Mediterranean basin in the coming days, the General Directorate of Civil Defense calls on citizens to adhere to public safety guidelines. The most important of these are:
1. Remove the following items from vehicles:
- Gas canisters
- Lighters
- Soft drinks
- Perfumes and batteries of devices in general.
2. Slightly open vehicle windows for ventilation.
3. Do not fill the fuel tank of vehicles completely.
4. Refuel vehicles during the evening.
5. Do not inflate vehicle tires more than necessary.
Additionally, it reminded people to be cautious of scorpions and snakes while walking, as they may come out of their burrows and could enter nearby homes in search of cooler temperatures. It advised to drink plenty of water and fluids, avoid placing gas canisters in the sun, ensure that electrical loads are not excessive, and to use air conditioning only in family presence and especially during peak heat hours. Avoid direct sun exposure, particularly between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m."
The Civil Defense's warning to citizens and residents reiterated the continuation of the influence of hot air masses located currently over the Arabian Peninsula on Lebanon.
Guidelines for wildfires prevention and precautions for forest hikers include:
1. Dig a small pit away from dry grass or branches to use for fire and fill it with soil and water to cool it off when finished.
2. Continuously monitor the fire, especially when the wind is strong, which can cause sparks to spread.
3. Keep flammable materials away from the fire.
4. Collect trash in bags to dispose of it in waste bins, especially glass items.
5. Do not throw cigarette butts from vehicles onto roadsides or while walking in forests, especially near wooded areas.
6. Have a fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies.
During holidays and events:
1. Do not use fireworks, especially near forests or dry grass.
Guidelines for farmers:
1. Do not burn dry grass when cleaning fields, as it constitutes fuel that ignites quickly, especially when strong winds are present.
2. Clean small branches and grass from under trees and place them in safe locations away from forests.
Precautions citizens should take when heading to the beach or pool include:
1. Take necessary protective items (sunscreen, drinking water, a hat, protective sunglasses).
2. Continuously use sunscreen to protect from sun rays.
3. Drink non-alcoholic fluids, especially large quantities of water, particularly for children who may not feel thirsty while playing in the water.
4. Constantly monitor children and do not allow them to swim unsupervised.
5. Avoid swimming in remote areas when alone or during high waves or strong currents.
6. Refrain from swimming immediately after eating and drinking.
7. If experiencing a muscle cramp, lie on your back and relax.
8. Prevent children from running around the pool and jumping into deep areas.
9. Do not engage in water skiing or jet skiing unless wearing a life jacket and away from designated swimming areas.
10. Avoid drinking alcohol while operating boats or jet skis.
11. Sit inside the boat wearing a life jacket while enjoying it.
12. Do not jump from high places, especially in rocky areas.
Finally, it concluded, "Wherever you are, upon hearing the fire truck or ambulance siren, please give way to allow them to pass. Citizens and residents are reminded to call the emergency number 125 to report any emergencies and request assistance when necessary."
