Heatwave Plan

Presentation of the National Heatwave Plan

In response to the heatwave of 2003 and the excess deaths caused in Europe, the Ministry of Health set up a National Heatwave Plan. The main aim of the Plan is to help the elderly, the frail and the isolated in the event of extreme heat by offering them medical monitoring visits and help with hydration.

Heatwave Plan: Target group

Exposure to high temperatures can create health problems for some vulnerable population groups. The effects of dehydration and heat will be most pronounced in infants, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses. Several other categories of people can be affected by extreme heat, such as the homeless, athletes, and people attending major sporting or cultural events where they are exposed to the heat.

The Heatwave Plan contains recommendations for the various population groups most at risk and, in particular, specific measures targeted at people aged 75 or over, living alone (or with an invalid), with limited independence, with little support and without the help of carers already in place under the dependency insurance scheme. These people can register or get themselves registered to receive medical monitoring and care visits in the event of extreme heat.

Heatwave alert

When weather conditions so indicate, the Health Department will issue a public alert with a reminder of its recommendations. From then on, monitoring visits are carried out by the COPAS home help and care networks.