Traffic enforcers in Mangaldan, Pangasinan have started feeling dizzy as the heat index in the province reached up to 40 degrees Celsius in recent days.

Over the past three days, the heat index in Pangasinan ranged from 37 to 40 degrees Celsius, exposing personnel assigned along major roads to extreme heat, especially those on afternoon duty.

Gerry Ydia, chief of the Mangaldan Public Order and Safety Office, said some enforcers have already experienced dizziness.

“Panghapon ang duty nila at dahil talaga sa init ng panahon, nakaranas na sila ng pagkahilo,” Ydia said.

Those assigned to the second shift, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., were the most affected, he added.

The local Public Order and Safety Office has coordinated with the Rural Health Unit to regularly monitor the condition of traffic enforcers. The office will also provide vitamins and adjust duty schedules to help prevent heat stroke.

“Ang advise natin, sumilong sila kapag sobrang init at hindi naman masyadong traffic,” Ydia said.

Health officials reminded the public that symptoms of heat stroke include fatigue, headache, vomiting and dizziness. They advised those experiencing symptoms to stay in a cool and well-ventilated area, avoid direct sunlight and keep hydrated. They also cautioned against taking pain medication and suggested loosening clothing and using a cool sponge bath to help regulate body temperature.

Dr. Rheuel Bobis, spokesperson of the Department of Health Center for Health Development Ilocos Region, urged workers exposed to extreme heat to take precautions.

“Ang una nating rekomendasyon ay magdala ng enough na supply ng clean drinking water. So kailangan, mayroon tayong access sa inuming tubig, magsuot din tayo ng damit na lightly colored na damit para makalabas ang ating body heat at higit sa lahat magdala tayo ng pananggalang sa sikat ng araw katulad ng payong or sumbrero,” Bobis said.

Local authorities said they will continue to monitor weather conditions and the health of personnel as high heat levels persist in the province.