Harmattan is a dry season occurring in the West African Subcontinent, characterized by dusty wind which blows from the Sahara Desert over West Africa into the Golf of Guinea. Harmattan has very severe effects on the human body. The dusty particles from the wind, if inhaled, can cause respiratory problems. It can also infect one with airborne diseases. Other effects of Harmattan include; dry Skin and cracked Lips and feet. In this article, we will discuss some tips on how to stay safe during this season. Solutions to the dry Skin and cracked Lips were also provided. So try, as much as you can, to read this article to the end.

Tips for staying safe during dry season
1. Drink Sufficient Water
Harmattan is usually characterized by a very dry and dusty condition. This makes people to lose water through evaporation thereby causing severe dehydration in human. To replenish the water lost through evaporation, you are advised to drink lots of water. The water also helps in the body metabolism .

Note that dehydration is also one of the causes of cracked lips. If you drink water frequently during Harmattan, you will hardly have cracked lips.

2. Use Moisturizer
Moisturizer is any substance applied to the skin to prevent it from drying up. Some creams are made for the wet (rainy) season and some are made for the dry season. Creams used in the rainy season contain very little oil and as such not good for the dry season. If you must use such creams during Harmattan, you should buy oil and mix with it. Use Vaseline to rub on your feet to prevent cracked feet. Don’t rub Vaseline on your lips, use lip bam instead.

3. Wear Clothes That Cover Most Parts of Your Body
Wear trousers and long-sleave shirt, or sweater; the type that will cover both your legs and hands. If possible, wear a cap. Cap will help prevent dusty particles from getting into your hair.

4. Wear Eyeglass
I know some don’t like putting on eyeglasses, but during this period of time; it is essential that you put on eyeglasses wherever you are going. For those that live in the remote part of Nigeria where the roads are not tarred , a pair of eyeglasses is a must for you. In some remote parts of Nigeria, sometimes you will see dust rolling up like spring water. Some moves so fast that it can pull a child down. To prevent itching eyes and other particles from entering your eyes, put on eyeglasses. It is not for fancy, it is for protection!