Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP) under the Department of Health issued advice on September 25 urging the public to guard against heat-related illnesses, including heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke, during very hot weather. It noted that excessive sweating and difficulty dissipating heat place stress on the body.

Recommended precautions include drinking water promptly to prevent dehydration, wearing light-coloured and loose-fitting clothing, keeping indoor spaces ventilated, and avoiding strenuous exercise or prolonged activities such as hiking. Outdoor activities should be scheduled for the morning or late afternoon where possible, with enough water brought along, and drinks containing caffeine or alcohol avoided because they may hasten water loss.

The CHP identified infants and children, the elderly, pregnant women, people with chronic illnesses such as heart disease or high blood pressure, overweight individuals and outdoor or manual workers as more susceptible to heat stroke. It advised against leaving young children unattended in confined spaces such as vehicles, and urged people with chronic conditions to keep ample medication and stay in contact with family and neighbours.

Citing figures for the past five years, the department said Hong Kong records over 200 hospital admissions due to heat stroke each year, with two to five fatal cases, mainly between May and September. It listed dizziness, headache, nausea, shortness of breath and confusion as symptoms, and said severe cases can involve convulsions or loss of consciousness. At a UV index of 6 or above, it advised sunscreen of at least SPF 30, shade, sunglasses, long sleeves and a wide-brimmed hat or umbrella.