News as of June 7, 2012 - Seasonal alert level of the National Heat Wave Plan activated as of June 1, 2012

As is the case every year, the seasonal alert level of the National Heat Wave Plan (PNC) was activated on June 1. This alert will be automatically deactivated on August 31, unless specific weather conditions warrant its continuation. This seasonal alert level corresponds to the implementation, at the national level, of:

• the Heat Wave and Health Alert System (SACS), which is based on a joint assessment of meteorological risks by Météo-France and health risks by the InVS, using mortality and morbidity indicators that it monitors daily. This assessment enables the InVS to anticipate the onset of a heat wave and recommend to the DGS the activation of the various levels of the PNC.

• the information and communication system, including the activation of the Ministry of Health’s toll-free number: 0 800 06 66 66 (free from a landline) as well as the distribution of materials intended for the general public, healthcare professionals and facilities, local authorities, etc.

The National Heat Wave Plan includes two additional levels, which can be activated depending on the situation:

• the warning and action level (MIGA), triggered by the prefects of the affected departments in the event of an alert issued by the DGS, based on a joint assessment by Météo-France and the InVS,

• the maximum mobilization level, triggered on the instructions of the Prime Minister, based on the joint recommendation of the Minister of the Interior and the Minister of Health. This final level corresponds to an exceptional situation extending beyond the health sector, when the heat wave is exacerbated by secondary effects (power outages, drinking water shortages, overcrowding in healthcare facilities or mortuaries, etc.) and requiring the mobilization of all relevant stakeholders.