Summer hazards: stay alert!

Accidental drowning, sun-related risks, mosquito-borne diseases, extreme heat…: summer isn’t without its risks. Santé publique France offers some tips to help you enjoy a worry-free summer.

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Drowning, Swimming

Whether at the beach, in a river, at a lake, or in a pool, summer is often a time for swimming and water activities. But every summer, drowning accounts for many accidental deaths, among children as well as adults and seniors. People of all ages and all swimming locations have been affected. To avoid risks and enjoy the water safely, the Directorate General for Health and Santé publique France remind the public of the proper precautions.

During the summer of 2015, the NOYADES survey recorded 1,266 accidental drownings, including 436 deaths—nearly 4 deaths per day.

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Sun Safety: Enjoying the Sun Safely

Whether at the beach, in the mountains, in the countryside, or even in the city, protect yourself from the sun. We all enjoy the sun and know its benefits: it boosts our mood and helps our bodies produce vitamin D. However, we sometimes forget that it can also pose risks. In mainland France, solar radiation is most intense between May and August. So, for all your outdoor activities—whether you’re in your garden, on a café terrace, at the beach, in the mountains, or in the countryside; when you’re exercising or simply taking a walk—protect yourself so the sun remains a pleasure.

Exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation, whether natural or artificial, remains the leading cause of skin cancers, including melanoma. 80,000 new cases of skin cancer are diagnosed each year.

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Heat and Health

During the summer, temperatures can rise significantly. Exposure to extreme heat affects our bodies, and the health risks are numerous. Seniors, infants, children, adults, pregnant women, workers, athletes… we’re all at risk! It’s important to protect yourself, even when the heat is short-lived. To prepare for heat waves, Santé publique France reminds everyone of these simple tips to follow.

  • Drink water regularly without waiting until you’re thirsty;

  • Cool off and wet your body (at least your face and forearms) several times a day;

  • Eat enough and avoid alcohol;

  • Avoid going outside during the hottest hours of the day and spend several hours a day in a cool place (movie theater, public library, supermarket, museum, etc.);

  • Avoid physical exertion;

  • Keep your home cool (close windows and shutters during the day; open them in the evening and at night if it’s cooler);

  • Be sure to check in with your loved ones regularly and, whenever necessary, don’t hesitate to ask for help;

  • Check the Météo-France website regularly for updates.

For real-time information on weather conditions, you can consult the Météo-France alert map, which is updated at least twice a day at 6 a.m. and 4 p.m. on the following website: http://vigilance.meteofrance.com.

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Mosquito-borne diseases

Mosquitoes can transmit various diseases. They can bite both day and night, and some, such as Aedes albopictus (also known as the tiger mosquito), can transmit diseases like chikungunya, dengue, or Zika. The best way to combat disease transmission is to protect yourself against bites. Take the right steps to limit mosquito breeding in your environment.

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Lyme disease

Summer is often a great time for outdoor activities and outings. For those who enjoy walks and hikes in the forest, campers… Be careful of ticks, which can transmit Lyme disease or Lyme borreliosis through a bite. Ticks are widespread throughout France and live in wooded and damp areas, tall grass in meadows, and forest and urban parks. They are most active between April and November. To avoid being bitten by a tick, the best prevention is to protect yourself by wearing long, closed-toe, light-colored clothing and a hat. Whether you’re a professional or an outdoor enthusiast, make sure you’re properly equipped!

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