As scorching temperatures grip Monaco this week, authorities are urging residents to take simple yet essential precautions to avoid serious health risks…
The Department of Social Affairs and Health has issued clear guidelines to help everyone, from infants to the elderly, stay safe as the heatwave intensifies.
Extreme heat can have immediate effects on the body, leading to dehydration or heatstroke, especially for vulnerable groups such as young children, pregnant women, seniors, and those with chronic illnesses. But even healthy individuals, including athletes and outdoor workers, are at risk if they ignore basic heat safety.
Key tips include drinking water frequently, keeping your home cool, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak heat hours until after 7pm. Cooling down with showers or cold compresses and wearing light, loose clothing can make a huge difference. Never leave children, elderly people, or animals alone in cars, even briefly, as temperatures inside can rise dangerously fast.
Sun protection is also vital. Wear long sleeves, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses marked category 3 CE. For uncovered skin, choose SPF 30+ when the UV index is 3–7, SPF 50+ for indexes 8–10, and avoid sun exposure entirely if it exceeds 11. Reapply sunscreen every two hours and after swimming, and never expose babies under one year old to direct sunlight.
For seniors, staying hydrated is crucial as many don’t feel thirst as easily. If you or someone you know is over 60 and living alone in Monaco, contact the Gerontological Coordination Centre for assistance. Keep an eye on children for warning signs such as fever, extreme thirst, or unusual drowsiness, and seek medical help immediately if these occur.
Stay cool, hydrated, and cautious; Monaco’s summer sun is beautiful but powerful!
Photo by Luis Graterol
