The Health Directorate of Luxembourg's Ministry of Health has published a reminder of recommendations for the general public in light of the current heat wave and issuing of the Red Alert by Meteolux where average minimums are likely to be above 23C and average maximums are expected to be between 35 - 40C.
The average and maximum temperatures are expected to be above the action threshold set by the action plan set up in 2019 to cope with the heat. These temperatures are likely to cause health problems for vulnerable people (in hospitals, nursing homes, integrated centres for the elderly, etc.).
With the outbreak of the red alert, the aid and care networks implement the programme of home visits of persons as selected on the pre-established lists; these visits started today, 24 July 2019, and will end on 26 July 2019, unless delayed by the Health Department.
Heat wave recommendations:
If you have an elderly or ill person living alone who is not supported by aid and care networks, it will be important to go to her home every day, especially to check that they have enough mineral water and that they consume enough.
• Make sure they consume at least 1.5 litres of water a day;
• Make sure that they spend several hours a day in cool or shady places;
• Close windows - and window shutters exposed to the sun - during the day;
• Make sure that they regularly take refreshing showers or partial baths.
Those concerned can also contact the Luxembourg Red Cross telephone exchange by tel: 2755 (Monday-Friday 07:00-19:00) or contact the Health Inspectorate of the Directorate of Health (tel: 247-85650) for any additional information.
4 golden rules to follow
• Drink a lot (at least 1.5 litres of mineral water or sparkling water a day)
• Spend several hours a day in cool or shady places (close windows, shutters and blinds during the day)
• Avoid intense physical activity during the hottest hours
• Cool off with showers or partial baths
