In 2004, the government implemented a National Heat Wave Plan that outlines the actions to be taken in case of a heatwave. The city of Nice and the Communal Center for Social Action (C.C.A.S) are responsible for ensuring the proper functioning of prevention and monitoring in the PACA region for the most vulnerable people in the event of extreme heat.
There are three levels of heat wave alerts. The first level is the watch phase, which is launched every summer from June 1st to August 31st, known as the “seasonal watch.” The second alert level is triggered when a significant heat wave is forecast up to three days in advance or is ongoing, with Department Prefects organizing prevention and some initial health interventions. The third and final alert level entails a general mobilization ordered by the Prime Minister in a case of severe heatwave, which has caused a breach of health safety limits and poses a real danger to the population over a large part of the country.
Elderly people, young children, and those with disabilities are generally the most affected by the heat wave. To assist them, the Communal Social Action Center in Nice is responsible for “registering elderly, disabled, and/or isolated individuals and maintaining an up-to-date confidential name-based registry” throughout the year. Therefore, individuals over 65, those with disabilities or limited mobility are encouraged to register with the Communal Social Action Center by calling 04 93 135 135 or via its website www.ccas-nice.fr. These individuals will then be assured of receiving a voice message in case of a heat wave alert and recommendations on how to avoid any health issues due to extreme heat. A home visit can also be made for increased safety.
In Nursing Homes for the Elderly and retirement homes, the Blue Plan will be activated. This involves hydrating the elderly as much as possible and protecting them from the heat.
The city of Nice is mobilizing. An “Anti-Heat Wave” squad, in July and August, will be responsible for delivering prevention messages to everyone. The Nice Educational Space for Health will inform locals and vacationers about the dangers of the sun, on Tuesday, July 7th at Ponchettes Beach, and Wednesday, July 8th at Centenary Beach. Posters and leaflets published by the Ministry of Health on the topic of heatwaves will be distributed. Mist stations will be installed in certain parks and gardens. Municipal swimming pools and libraries will be open for extended hours. Finally, on the website nice.fr, you will find a list of air-conditioned places in the city, a link to the radio spot broadcasted in case of a level 2 alert on Radio France stations, and a list of water points (water dispensers, fountains, etc.) in the city of Nice.
Advice to follow to better cope with a heat wave:
Avoid going out during the hottest hours of the day, between 12 PM and 5 PM.
If you must go out, stay in the shade and wear a hat and light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.
At home, keep windows and shutters closed during the day to keep the interior cool. Open them at night and create airflows.
Hydrate regularly without waiting to feel thirsty (a minimum of one and a half to two liters per day, unless medically advised otherwise).
Refresh your body and face several times a day, without drying off.
If possible, spend 2 to 3 hours per day in an air-conditioned place, such as cinemas or shopping centers.
And especially, protect your children! Remember that they are more vulnerable to heat than adults.
Solidarity and mutual aid are important notions in the event of a heat wave. Some people are more vulnerable than others and need more help. In 2003, an unprecedented heat wave hit Europe. In France, the temperature record was 42.6ยฐC in Orange. That scorching summer saw dramatic figures: 15,000 deaths in France.
