Because the RMI also predicts very high temperatures for the coming days and at the same time high ozone concentrations are expected, experts from the various governments decided on Saturday to activate the alarm phase of the ozone and heat plan for the first time. This means a reinforcement of the measures already taken.
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The warning phase of the ozone and heat plan had been in effect since last Sunday, but “given the exceptional values of the average ozone concentrations and temperatures, the Risk Management Group has decided to activate the alarm phase.” It is the first time that this phase has been activated. The measures are especially strengthening for the elderly, the chronically ill, young children and socially isolated people. Mouth masks will have to be replaced more often, because they should not get wet.
After all, the combination of ozone and heat is very harmful to health, especially for vulnerable people. On top of that comes the corona virus.
Some measures that the various authorities must take include: guaranteeing access to drinking water, especially in the big cities, and preventing people from having to wait in queues in the direct sun. This means that drinking water fountains that were closed because of the pandemic, but can be reopened with the hygienic measures. Cafés and restaurants are also encouraged to provide free drinking water.
The corona virus provides additional measures. In residential care centers, for example, the coolest spaces must be made available for people who have been placed in quarantine. Adequate staff must also be provided to ensure residents are adequately hydrated. Fans and air conditioning should be avoided due to the coronavirus, but use will be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
More information about the measures to be taken can be found at www.warmedagen.be.
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