Going out to cast your vote? Here's how to stay calm when heat wave or rain plays spoilsport

The secound phase of Lok Sabha elections kickstarted today. Voters in 95 constituencies are going to polls in the second phase of voting. Nearly 90 crore people will exercise their franchise on seven different dates between April 11 and May 19, according to the Election Commission. Polling has already begun and will continue till 6 pm. Polling will seal the political future of a total of 85 candidates contesting from different parties in the EVMs.

As the month of April lies in the summer season, heat is on peak over most parts of the country. Even though presently, the northern and northeastern parts of the country will be under the influence of rains, central and southern parts will still be expecting hot weather conditions. 

It is important the voters take primary precautions before going to cast their votes, the process for which started at 7 AM and ends by 6 PM. Severe heat can cause heat strokes and heat exhaustion that can lead to symptoms like dizziness, headaches, fainting and others. 

It is advisable to avoid the wee hours for casting vote and visit the polling station before the sun goes high in the sky, preferably before 10 am or after it goes down i.e. after 5 pm. The voters can also avoid the rush and long queues at the polling station in this way.

Carry a bottle of water and glucose to keep you hydrated as you wait at the long queue to cast vote. Many polling booths offer water and juices for the convenience of the voters, but it is always smart to carry your essentials without depending on the poll authority.

Take a shower before you leave home for the polling station. 

If the weather forecast in your areas says spells of rain, carry your umbrella or a rain coat 

Gloomy weather means menance of insects and mosquitoes. If you are casting vote in a booth that is surrounded by shrubs and bushes, carry mosquito repellents. 

Malfunctioning of the EVMs is a common norm this polling season, that can extend your waiting time under the scorching sun.

Carry dry food items like fruits, biscuits so thay you are not left hungry.

Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothes for your casting vote outing. Try to cover your head with a hat or an umbrella to keep the head from becoming too warm. 

Carry and wear sunglasses to keep your eyes safe if you go out during the peak hours of the sun. Don't forget to dab sunscreen lotion on your face.

Casting the vote is your constitutional right, don't let the heat of the sudden rain deter you from your rights.