From Monday, a scorching episode lasting several days should affect all of France. Temperatures will range from 30 to 36 degrees over the northern half. Faced with this heat wave, the most vulnerable must be protected.
France is hot! With 30 degrees in Lille, but also in Strasbourg, the north of the country is also beginning to be affected by the hot weather. With three-quarters of the departments of France currently in level 2 of the heat wave plan, the next few days may be difficult for many French people. Especially since a scorching episode is expected for Monday, July 22. Over a three to four day period, temperatures are expected to soar, ranging from 30 to 36 degrees in the northern half, and 31 to 38 degrees in the southern half. So, faced with this heat wave, the National Institute for Prevention and Education (Inpes) recalls how to protect yourself.
People at risk
Depending on age, the body does not react in the same way to high temperatures. When you are over 65, the body sweats little, and it is therefore difficult to maintain a temperature of 37 ° C. The body temperature can then rise. These people therefore risk during these episodes, the famous “heat stroke”, that is to say hyperthermia (temperature above 40 ° with alteration of consciousness).
In addition, the body of toddlers is also fragile, especially that of infants and children under 4 years old. Exposure to high heat causes a rise in temperature and rapid loss of water from their body (60%) which can lead to severe dehydration. Finally, in manual workers, especially those who exercise outdoors, and when playing sports, the body exposed to heat sweats a lot to maintain the right temperature. They therefore have a greater risk of dehydration.
How to protect yourself
For the elderly, it will be a question of wetting their skin well several times a day, while ensuring a slight ventilation. But also, be sure to drink about 1.5 L of water per day. If these people have difficulty swallowing liquids, they should not hesitate to take water, in solid form, for example by consuming fruits (melon, watermelon, plums, grapes, citrus fruits), or even gelled water. Finally, it is better during episodes of high heat, that these people do not consume alcohol, or drinks high in caffeine or sugar. They must also continue to eat normally (fruits, vegetables, bread, soup, etc.) even in the absence of a feeling of hunger. Spending several hours a day in a cool or air-conditioned place and not going out during the hottest hours of the day are also valuable tips that older people should respect.
For children and adults sensitive to heat, the advice is almost identical, drink plenty of water, and do not make intense physical efforts in full sun (sports, gardening, crafts). And for the bravest who will go outside despite the heat, Inpes recommends wearing light, loose-fitting and light clothing, not to mention a hat.
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