High heat plan and ozone peaks: Warning in Brussels
Brussels regional authorities published again a warning for the heat wave.
Periods of high heat are becoming more and more frequent. Most often, they are accompanied by an abundant formation of ozone in the ambient air. Heat and ozone can be harmful to health, but some people are at greater risk: these include the elderly, babies and young children, the chronically ill and the infirm (especially when they live alone).
What are the measures for hot weather in Brussels?
The "high heat and ozone peaks" plan opens in a new window aims to anticipate the appearance of periods of high heat and ozone peaks. It aims to define the measures intended to prevent and limit the impact of heat and ozone peaks on health.
The plan is actually made up of 3 phases:
The vigilance phase: period during which surveillance is increased, but not constituting an alert strictly speaking.
The warning phase: the media remind you of the right actions to limit the risks. Institutions that receive more fragile populations, such as young children or the elderly, are called upon to be even more vigilant.
The federal alert phase: this is a crisis situation. Special measures are taken by the federal authorities opens in a new window (Risk Management Group).
What to do concretely in hot weather?
Drink more water than usual, preferably two or four glasses per hour. Be careful that babies, young children, people who need help and the elderly drink enough.
Avoid alcoholic drinks and drinks that contain caffeine and sugar. Alcohol causes the body to lose its moisture, while the body absorbs sugary drinks slower than water.
Rest and limit physical exertion (e.g. sports activities), especially between 12 and 20 hours.
Leave curtains and shutters closed during the day and air out at night when it's a bit cooler again.
Seek freshness and/or refresh yourself regularly (shower, bath, swimming pool, fountain, etc.). Take advantage of the many islands of coolness, especially near fountains and bodies of water, and in the shade of trees in parks.
Adapt your clothes and those of your children: light clothes (cotton), light colors, hat or cap against the sun. Protect yourself against sunburn with sunscreen.
Never leave a child, a disabled person or a pet in a stationary or poorly ventilated car.
Contribute to the organization of an intergenerational vigilance network in your neighborhood to watch over isolated vulnerable people.
If you are taking certain medications, ask your doctor or pharmacist in advance:
if they can have a negative effect on your health during a heat period
if the dose needs to be adjusted.
Get informed and prepare
It is advised to download the “Brussels Air” application to stay constantly informed of the evolution of air quality in Brussels. The application will also send you a notification in the event of a pollution peak. If you have any questions, do not miss to also consult the FAQ section.
Source: qualitedelair.brussels
