Every year, from June 1 to September 15, health authorities—in close collaboration with Météo France—activate their health monitoring system to track public exposure to heat waves. At the same time, health authorities implement preventive measures to remind the public of the right precautions to take and how to best prepare for the heat.

Taking the right steps before and during a heat wave to protect yourself and care for those around you

Heat waves—and in particular heatwaves—which are becoming increasingly frequent, early, intense, and prolonged, pose a major public health challenge. They can have significant effects on everyone’s health, and particularly on that of vulnerable individuals, including the elderly, isolated people, those with disabilities, and those in precarious situations, as well as patients with chronic conditions, pregnant women, young children, and outdoor workers.

To limit the impact of these events on human health, health authorities emphasize the importance of preparing for them. To this end, recommendations are made available to the general public ahead of summer via social media, prevention campaigns, and the websites of the Ministry of Health and Access to Healthcare and Santé publique France, to help people cope better with the heat (how to adapt your home to the heat, when to exercise, etc.).

At the same time, and in the event of a heat wave, health authorities remind everyone of the importance of strictly following preventive measures during heat waves:

• Drink water regularly without waiting until you are thirsty;

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

• Eat fresh, balanced meals and avoid alcohol;

• Avoid going outside during the hottest hours of the day and spend several hours a day in a cool place (movie theater, public library, supermarket, etc.);

• Avoid physical exertion;

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

• Remember to check in regularly with loved ones, especially those who are most vulnerable, and, whenever necessary, don’t hesitate to ask for help.

Learn more

Stay informed about weather hazards:

• Météo-France alerts (maps, timelines, and detailed reports)

Check out the prevention tips and tools developed by:

• The Ministry of Labor, Health, Solidarity, and Families

• Public Health France | Tools

• Living with the Heat | Santé publique France website