Heatwave sets in in Millau and South Aveyron: what actions can the most vulnerable people take ?

Hydration and shelter during the hottest hours of the day remain solutions to be advocated. Midi Libre

Since Monday, July 29, Aveyron has been placed on orange heatwave alert. This alert requires great vigilance. The Millau CCAS (communal social action center), which lists elderly or isolated people, also welcomes those who wish to cool down.

Exposure to high temperatures is not without danger for the body, the body must fight to maintain its temperature, thanks to perspiration. But when the body temperature increases rapidly, this is what is called heat stroke, and it is not harmless, especially for people who are already weakened (elderly, sick, pregnant women, those with a chronic illness, infants, etc.) who risk dehydration or worsening of their chronic illness. People exposed to heat (sportspeople and outdoor workers, for example) should also take precautions.

When to be alarmed?

When signs of dehydration appear: high temperature, hot and red skin, headaches, nausea, intense thirst, unusual aggressiveness; muscle cramps; exhaustion that can result in dizziness, weakness, unusual insomnia. You should then stop all activity, cool down by moistening your skin, rest in a cool place and drink. If these symptoms persist, consult a doctor or call 15.

The register to identify the most vulnerable

The CCAS of Millau has set up a register for people likely to find themselves in a state of great fragility in the event of extreme heat. During the summer, the communal social action centre also opens the doors of the Capelle home (6 place de la Capelle) to anyone wishing to cool off. It is open from 9am to 4pm, Monday to Friday. (Lunch on site is possible by booking at 05 65 60 08 81). On Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, the Soleil centre takes over from 9am to 6pm.

How to cope with heatwaves?

For the most vulnerable: the elderly: from the age of 65, the body does not sweat enough to maintain its temperature. It is therefore necessary to replace sweat by regularly wetting the skin. Infants, athletes and manual workers exposed to heat: if the body sweats and the water supply is depleted, it is therefore necessary to renew the body's water by drinking abundantly in order to regulate the body temperature.

People with chronic illnesses: their illnesses are aggravated by heat, the ideal is to stay in a cool place. For everyone, a few common sense rules: drink regularly without waiting to be thirsty. Avoid going out during the hottest hours and doing physical activity. Keep your home cool by closing it during the day and opening it at night. Wet your body several times a day. Leave for 2 to 3 hours in a cool place