The executive is preparing for the heat wave that is coming to France. Temperatures of 35 to 40°C are expected from the middle of the week in France. Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin sent a telegram to the prefects on Monday June 13. He mentions a “Priority of security and protection of populations”.
“Due to the early wave of strong heat which will cross France this week, you will personally mobilize in the dissemination of awareness messages intended for all actors in contact with people exposed to risks linked to high temperatures. “writes Gérald Darmanin, mentioning “elderly people, children, outdoor workers or those with intense physical activity and people in very precarious social situations, in particular the homeless”. “The metropolises being areas particularly exposed to very high temperatures, you will promote the establishment of islands of coolness”continues the minister.
“Specific recommendations” from the Ministry of National Education
For its part, the Ministry of National Education indicates that “specific recommendations for school principals and headteachers have been sent”, Monday, to prevent the effects of this heat wave. Candidates for the baccalaureate are especially concerned. Indeed, the vocational baccalaureate exams are due to start on Tuesday. Those of the general and technological baccalaureate will follow from June 15 and 16.
“Special vigilance will be given to the health of students, especially the youngest, the most fragile and those who will take the baccalaureate exams”specifies a press release assuring that “the heads of examination centers will ensure that the instructions are followed in the event of an episode of high heat, while ensuring the smooth running of the tests”. It is therefore requested toensure that the candidates have drinking water available and/or allow them to leave the room to quench their thirst”.
Principals are asked “to identify the most exposed premises and to adapt the organization and use of the spaces according to the exposure in order to welcome the pupils in spaces preserved from the heat”. The Ministry of National Education also recalls “the importance of being attentive to the signs of heat stroke: great weakness, fatigue, dizziness, vertigo, nausea, cramps, temperature, headaches” and then quickly call “medical help”.