A European heatwave is music to many UK holidaymakers’ ears, particularly as the start of summer holiday season hits. Yet the sizzling hot weather does, sometimes, come at a cost. France in particular is in the midst of a searing hot spell which has seen three people die yesterday, after supposedly jumping into the sea to escape the heatwave. Mail Online reports local media claims that the individuals – aged 70, 62 and 75 – had dived into the water at the beach of Marseillan Plage, near Montpellier, before being struck with cold shock.
The 70 year old is said to then have died following cardiac arrest, while all are believed to have fallen foul of hydrocution, or cold shock, in the 33 degree heat.
Yet what is cold shock, and what can Britons heading to Europe in the heatwave do to best protect themselves?
Cold shock is described as the response of organisms to sudden cold, especially cold water.
In humans, cold shock response is the most common cause of death from immersion in very cold water.
This can happen quite easily in summertime, if tourists are dipping in the sea to cool off after sunbathing.
The shock of the cold causes involuntary inhalation, which if someone is underwater, can result in drowning.
It can also cause heart attack due to vasoconstriction, where blood vessels constrict thereby increasing blood pressure.
The RNLI has advised how floating is the best technique should Britons be struck by cold shock.
In a video posted on the website, Professor Mike Tipton said of the shock: “You have to fight that natural urge to thrash about or swim around.
“It’s much safer to relax and try to float for the 90 minutes it takes for cold shock to disappear.
“You’ll start to think straight, so you can start planning your next move.”
Mike then advised UK travellers set to go on holiday to visit their local swimming pool in run up, to “practise” their technique.
The charity offered further advice on floating and put: “Air in the body, such as the gut and lungs, and body fat are lighter than water – that’s why we can float.
“The more air in our lungs and the more relaxed our body is in the water, the better we can float.
“Floating lets us regain control of our breathing which steadies our heart rate.
“So, if you find yourself unexpectedly in the water, relax and float for up to 90 seconds – the duration it takes for cold water shock to disappear.”
The FCO today updated its travel advice for France and stated: “Extreme temperatures are forecast across most of France in the last week of June, with daytime temperatures over 40ºC and overnight temperatures over 20ºC in parts of the country.
“The French authorities have issued advice on sensible precautions to take.
“Cities may limit vehicle access to town centres and main roads, including the Paris region.”
