Gwangju Gwangsan-gu Takes All-Out Measures to Minimize Damage from Scorching Heat

[Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Yoon Jamin] Gwangsan-gu, Gwangju Metropolitan City, has launched an all-out response to minimize damage caused by the ongoing severe heatwave.

On the 22nd, Gwangsan-gu held the '2021 Heatwave Response Situation Assessment Meeting' chaired by Lee Dong-guk, Deputy Head of the Disaster and Safety Countermeasures Headquarters (Deputy Mayor), to review heatwave prevention measures aimed at protecting citizens from the summer heat.

In response to the increase in testing due to the 4th wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, heatwave countermeasures at screening clinics and vaccination centers were promptly reinforced.

Shade tents were installed and safety umbrellas provided for citizens visiting the screening clinics. Additionally, ice blocks were placed in various locations and ice water supplied to help cool citizens waiting in line.

At the outdoor waiting area of the 'Gwangsan-gu COVID-19 Vaccination Center,' large sunshades and sprinklers were installed, and air conditioners are operating to reduce heat.

For outdoor workers exhausted by the heat, cooling supplies such as ice packs and cool towels are being provided. The number of preliminary examination doctors has been increased, and additional administrative support personnel, including volunteers, have been deployed to minimize vaccination waiting times.

Various measures have also been prepared to protect citizens' safety from the heatwave.

A rapid response and support system has been established for heat-related illness cases, and health management for vulnerable groups has been significantly strengthened.

Cooling costs and cooling supplies are being supported at 375 heat-relief shelters, and active promotion of heat rest time policies is underway to ensure the safety of construction site workers.

To cool down urban heat, water spraying trucks have also started operating. When the maximum temperature exceeds 31 degrees Celsius, water spraying trucks will operate three times a day (once in the morning and twice in the afternoon) targeting major roads.

Additionally, 132 shaded crosswalks for pedestrians are currently in operation.

The district plans to actively discover and implement further heatwave reduction measures, such as expanding heat-relief shelters and installing additional heatwave mitigation facilities like smart shade tents, cool roofs, and cool pavements.

Kim Sam-ho, Mayor of Gwangsan-gu, urged, "Each department should actively promote heatwave prevention rules (shade, water, rest) to prevent any cases of citizens suffering damage from the heatwave."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.