Heat Wave: Simple Steps to Take

The weather forecast predicts a period of intense heat across the region, lasting a few days, but longer in the Rhône Valley. Santé publique France is reminding the public of simple precautions everyone should take—including those in good health—to best protect themselves and those around them from the effects of the heat.

For real-time weather updates, you can check the Météo-France weather advisory map, which is updated at least twice a day at 6 a.m. and 4 p.m.: http://vigilance.meteofrance.com.

It is important to protect yourself, even when the heat is short-lived. These preventive measures apply to everyone, but especially to vulnerable individuals (people over the age of 65, people with disabilities or medical conditions, those requiring care, pregnant women, young children, and the homeless) and to workers exposed to heat, who are at greater risk of developing complications.

Everything You Need to Know About Behavioral and Prevention Guidelines

  • 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, etc.), while remembering to follow safety guidelines to protect yourself from COVID-19;

  • Avoid physical exertion;

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

In the car and on long trips

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

  • If possible, schedule 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

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

  • Call a doctor if symptoms persist for more than 1 hour or worsen

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