Despite global warming, the impact of cold weather in France is not expected to diminish. This impact on health should therefore not be overlooked, and preventive measures are necessary.

In collaboration with Météo France, Santé publique France monitors the health impact of extreme cold waves using its syndromic surveillance system for emergency room visits and deaths—SurSaUD®.

An information and prevention tool

Santé publique France provides communication tools based on two pillars: one to help the public understand the risk in advance, and the other to enable better action during cold waves and periods of extreme cold.

In both cases, the goal is to raise awareness and protect the public from the health consequences specific to the winter season, and more particularly to extreme cold waves.

• “Preventive” communication

It should inform the public in advance about the health consequences specific to episodes of “extreme cold” or “very severe cold” and about how to protect themselves. It aims to ensure that everyone is aware of the risks associated with the winter season and adopts the right habits to guard against them. Reminders of these habits and rules must be provided throughout the season.

• “Emergency” Communication

It relies in particular on strengthening “preventive” communication and implementing additional measures in the event of an orange or red weather alert. It can be local or national depending on the severity of the situation.

Messages tailored to the most vulnerable groups, such as the elderly or children, are available for download online for printing and local distribution in areas affected by a cold snap.

The initiative includes flyers, brochures, a radio campaign, and a radio spot. These materials are available in the TOOLS tab.