Heat Wave: Simple Steps to Take

According to Météo-France, a heat wave will affect the southeastern part of the country and the Rhône Valley starting today and is expected to last through the end of the week. Santé publique France is urging caution and reminding the public of simple precautions to take during periods of high heat or heat waves.

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Extreme heat, heat wave

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Extreme heat expected in the coming days

According to Météo-France, extreme heat will affect the southeastern part of the country and the Rhône Valley starting Wednesday, August 11, and is expected to last through the weekend. Nighttime temperatures will not drop below 21 to 22°C, and daytime highs will reach around 35 to 38°C. Temperatures may reach or exceed 40°C locally in inland Provence. Thursday, August 12, is expected to be the hottest day of this heat wave.

Simple tips and precautions to help prevent heat-related risks

Santé publique France reminds the public of simple precautions to take, which apply to everyone—including healthy individuals—to best combat the effects of heat on oneself and those around you.

  • Drink water regularly without waiting until you’re thirsty

  • Cool off and wet your body (at least your face and forearms) several times a day

  • Keep your home cool (close windows and shutters during the day; open them in the evening and at night if it’s cooler)

  • Eat enough and avoid alcohol

  • Choose the coolest times of day to go outside, and if it’s hot at home, spend several hours a day in a cool place (movie theater, public library, supermarket, museum...)

  • Avoid physical exertion

  • Be sure to check in with your loved ones regularly, and don’t hesitate to ask for help whenever necessary

  • Also remember to check in with your loved ones regularly

reference reference

In the car and on long trips

  • Never leave anyone alone in a car, especially a child, even for a very short time, as the temperature inside the vehicle can rise very quickly

  • If possible, plan your trip for cooler times of day

  • Remember to bring water and a spray bottle with you on car trips

  • Stop regularly to rest and cool off: some highway rest areas have water fountains or misting stations available

If you experience warning signs (cramps, unusual fatigue, nausea, vomiting, headaches, etc.)

  • Stop all physical activity and move to a cool place

  • Drink water

  • Cool off with a damp cloth, a mist sprayer, a shower, etc.

  • Call a doctor if symptoms persist for more than an hour or worsen

  • If you see someone who is feeling unwell or speaking incoherently, call 911

Infants and Children

  • Be sure to protect them from the heat at all times (avoid going out during the hottest hours of the day, and make sure they drink and cool off regularly)

  • During cooler hours, when going out, have children wear a wide-brimmed hat, sunglasses, and light, covering clothing. Apply sunscreen to their exposed skin to protect them from UV rays.

  • Never expose babies under one year of age to the sun

  • Never leave a child in a poorly ventilated room or vehicle, even for a very short time.

Athletes

  • Postpone sports activities until the coolest times of the day, or even until after the heat wave has passed.

Workers

When swimming

Check out our infographic "Swimming: Be Careful During Heat Waves!"