Informed. Prepared. Together
  • Hittegolf - Canicule
    Heat wave
    Due to climate change, we are increasingly facing unusually hot periods. Whenever the average minimum temperature is higher than 18°C and the average maximum temperature is higher than 30°C for three consecutive days, we refer to it as a heat wave. The heat may cause problems via sunstroke, heat cramps, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, ... The following is a list of some simple advice to help you to avoid these problems.
    • Listen to the weather forecasts so you know when a heat wave is expected.
       
    • Drink plenty (1 to 1½ l/day).
       
    • If you are a high-risk person (heart patient, elderly ...), check with your doctor about the risks to your health.
       
    • If you are taking medication, ask your doctor or pharmacist whether they may have a negative impact on your health during a very hot period.
       
    • Identify the places with air conditioning that could keep you cool, e.g. shopping centre, cinema, ...
       
    • If you know people at risk who may need help, do not hesitate to help them prepare.

     

    Bereid je voor - Preparez-vous
    Collect useful items that may come in handy: bottled water, hat, sunglasses, sunscreen, ...

    • Drink more than usual (mineral water, fruit juice, herbal tea, ...). Avoid alcohol, coffee, sodas, ...
       
    • If you leave for a long journey, take some drinks with you (risk of traffic jams, ...).
       
    • Do not wait to drink until you feel thirsty.
       
    • Stay indoors as much as possible at the hottest times of day, preferably in a cool place, at home or in a public place.
       
    • Close the windows and draw the curtains of the sides of the building where the sun is shining. Open them only when the most intense heat is over.
       
    • Limit physical activity as much as possible. If this is not possible, then pause regularly and drink enough.
       
    • Dress according to the weather: wear light clothing (cotton) in a light colour.
       
    • Protect your skin against the sun: use sunscreen with a high protection factor.
       
    • If you have symptoms (cramps, high fever, headache, faintness, ...), consult your doctor immediately.
       
    • If your body temperature is very high (40°), call 112 immediately.
       
    • Do not leave people or animals in a parked vehicle.

     

    Solidariteit - Solidarité If you know vulnerable, elderly or isolated people in your area, do not hesitate to stop by and to see together if they need help.

    • If you still feel bad, talk to your doctor.
       
    • Continue to ensure proper hydration.
       
    • Get sufficient rest.