Plan water, accessible breaks and departure compatible with occupants’ condition. Never leave a child alone in a car, even for a few minutes or with a window partly open.
Adapt the programme
Check forecasts and warnings along the route, not just at the destination. Avoid a tight schedule that prevents breaks. If a passenger tolerates heat poorly, plan another time or postpone; ask a healthcare professional for advice specific to their situation.
Prepare the cabin
Ventilate a car that has stood in the sun before seating occupants. Locate water, sun protection and useful belongings without obstructing vision. Check ventilation; air conditioning replaces neither breaks nor watching passengers’ condition.
Organise every stop
At stops, take occupants with you to a suitable place. Agree between adults who accompanies children; do not assume the other person has taken them. Keep keys with you and check the cabin when leaving. A shaded car can quickly become exposed to sunlight.
Respond when someone feels unwell
A driver who feels unwell should seek a safe stop and help rather than complete the last stretch. For a medical emergency, call 15 or 112 and follow instructions. A drink or short break cannot guarantee fitness to resume driving.
The car stood in the sun for a long time before departure.
Prepare the cabin and occupants before starting, carry water and organise breaks. Check health guidance for vulnerable people and adapt timing where possible.
What to avoid. A partly open window does not make it safe to leave a vulnerable person alone in the car.
Practical checks
- Check weather along the route
- Plan water and breaks
- Accompany children at every stop
- Allow postponement when someone is unwell
Common questions
Does an open window let me leave a child alone?
No. No child should remain alone in the vehicle.
Can air conditioning replace breaks?
No. Occupants’ needs and driver alertness still need monitoring.
Should I change treatment myself during a heatwave?
No. Ask a healthcare professional and also check the treatment’s effects on driving.
Official references
This English translation concerns rules and services in France. It does not make them applicable in another country. Local signs, official instructions, vehicle manuals and contracts may specify your situation. Linked references and service pages are in French.
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