A cold snap is settling over mainland France: Météo France has today issued an orange alert for extreme cold in 4 departments and an orange alert for snow and ice in 31 departments: https://vigilance.meteofrance.com/. The number of departments under an orange alert for extreme cold will increase over the course of the week and could eventually cover the entire northern half of the country.

This cold snap will be characterized by very low wind chill temperatures, which pose a danger particularly to vulnerable populations—including those who are homeless or isolated, at-risk individuals (the elderly, children, and people with certain pre-existing chronic conditions), and potentially all exposed populations.

Santé Publique France and the Ministry of Health remind the public of the measures everyone can take to prevent and limit the health effects associated with cold snaps, particularly the risks of carbon monoxide poisoning, which can be fatal:

• never use a combustion-based space heater for extended periods;

• never use devices not intended for heating (camping stoves, ovens, fire pits, barbecues, etc.);

• Never use a generator indoors (house, basement, garage, etc.). These devices must always be placed outside buildings;

• Ventilate your home regularly and never block ventilation grilles.

If you experience symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning (headaches, nausea, confusion, fatigue), call 15, 18, or 112.

In addition, cold weather increases the risk of cardiovascular conditions and can cause hypothermia (goosebumps, shivering, numbness in the extremities) or frostbite. Therefore, it is recommended that you limit outdoor activities and physical exertion.

If you must go outside:

• be especially vigilant with infants and children. Dress your baby warmly, paying particular attention to the head and extremities (hands, feet). Avoid placing your infant in a baby carrier, which may compress their lower limbs and lead to frostbite. It is best to carry your child in your arms, a baby carriage, or a stroller so they can move around regularly to stay warm;

• In any case, dress very warmly, opting for multiple layers of clothing, and cover your extremities;

• if you live in areas at risk of snow-related falls, be vigilant. The consequences of a fall, particularly for the elderly, can be serious (fractures, various injuries, etc.);

• If you must drive, check road conditions. In case of snow or ice, only use your vehicle if absolutely necessary. In any case, bring hot drinks (thermos), warm clothing and blankets, your regular medications, and a fully charged cell phone.

Also, be sure to check in regularly on elderly, disabled, and/or isolated people in your neighborhood or social circle.

Finally, don’t hesitate to call 115 if you notice a homeless person or someone in distress on the street. In situations that endanger the life of a person on the street (severe hypothermia, etc.), you should contact the emergency medical services (SAMU).