With a severe heatwave in many parts of Europe, French government officials have advised the public to refrain from drinking alcohol, as it can add to the risks associated with high temperatures.
The advisory is being issued as a number of regions in France are set to experience unseasonably warm weather, reports say, which has led health authorities to give public safety advice, according to News 18.
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Alcohol being discouraged
Alcohol has been found to speed up dehydration, which occurs when there is a loss of fluid from the body, health experts say. Hazard of dehydration, heat exhaustion and heatstroke increases greatly during hot periods. French public health authorities have thus advised people to place water and other non-alcoholic drinks as their primary focus to keep hydrated.
News18 reports that alcohol can cause a person to become less aware of the early signs and symptoms of heat-related illness and can make it harder for the body to regulate its temperature. This is especially dangerous during extended high temperature spells.
Europe experiencing severe heatwaves
The warning comes as large parts of Europe experience soaring temperatures. To ensure the protection of vulnerable groups, such as the elderly, children and individuals with existing medical conditions, various measures have been adopted in countries like France.
Meteorologists have tied the heat wave to the general trends of climate change that have brought about an increase in both the frequency and severity of extreme weather events.
Public health officials have recommended the following measures to help people avoid effects of extreme heat:
To keep cool by staying in the air conditioning or building, wear light-colored, light fabric clothing and stay hydrated.
To regularly consume drinking water, even if not thirsty. People are also urged to refrain from strenuous outdoor activities during the heat of the day, and to find cool, shaded or air-conditioned areas wherever possible.
Health experts also recommend monitoring those in need, including the elderly and neighbours, who are more susceptible to the heat during heatwaves.
An increasing public health issue
The new warning emphasizes the growing health risks from heat and cold. Government is increasingly highlighting measures to prevent heat-related illness and safeguard public health, as extremities of heat continue to increase all over Europe.
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FAQs
Q1. Why is France advising people to avoid alcohol during the heatwave?
Alcohol can increase dehydration and raise the risk of heat-related illnesses.
Q2. What should people drink instead during extreme heat?
Water and other non-alcoholic hydrating beverages are recommended.
