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THE FRENCH GOVERNMENT HAS INSTRUCTIONS TO HELP PEOPLE STAY SAFE The French official weather forecaster Météo France operates at four levels of alert for storms: GREEN: No danger YELLOW: Be

vigilant if you are planning outdoor activities ORANGE: Be careful when out of the home, dangerous weather is expected, cancel plans outdoors if possible RED: Extreme vigilance required,

exceptionally dangerous weather is expected If a red alert situation is declared, it is likely that you will also receive an alert through your mobile phone’s emergency text service,

informing you of all necessary precautions. The government has issued instructions on what to do if you are informed of a sudden flood. STAY INDOORS It may seem obvious, but in the event of

a severe storm warning, you should stay inside. Work from home if you can, and postpone any trip whether by foot or car. DO NOT RUSH TO PICK-UP YOUR CHILDREN AT SCHOOL If you receive an

emergency alert on your mobile phone, you should not go to pick up your children at school. Schools are fully equipped to deal with natural disasters, whether floods, tornadoes or an

earthquake. All classrooms have emergency supplies, and teachers and students are drilled every year to practise safe evacuation procedures. The rescue services may be hindered by parents

gathering in front of schools with their cars in dangerous conditions. Your children will be taken care of by staff, which includes nurses. That is why you should not go to pick-up your

children, unless explicitly asked by authorities. MAKE YOUR HOME AS SAFE AS POSSIBLE If you can, avoid ground floor or underground areas. Staying elevated makes you safer in the event of a

flood. Stay away from windows as hail, strong winds or falling objects may break them. Turn off gas, electricity and ventilation, lock all doors and windows, reinforcing gaps with tape or

fabric if needed. READ ALSO: FRANCE STORM WARNINGS CONTINUE: TIPS ON HOW TO SECURE YOUR PROPERTY DO NOT DRIVE Only a few centimetres of water can make you lose control of your car. Strong

currents can also prevent you from opening your car door. READ ALSO: VEHICLES, HOMES: CLAIMING COMPENSATION FOR WEATHER DAMAGE IN FRANCE STAY AWAY FROM WATER AND TREES Waterbanks become very

hazardous during storms, as the ground gets muddy and slippery. Water levels can also rise abruptly. If you hear thunder, then you should also avoid hiding under trees, especially if they

are the highest point around. In dense cities, most tall buildings are equipped with lightning rods. STAY INFORMED AND COMMUNICATE WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY Keep your phone charged but try to

avoid phone calls so as to not flood the lines. Emergency services will be needing them, so use text and messaging apps if you can. Use text messaging to stay in touch with friends and

family, making sure they are safe. If you are aware of vulnerable or elderly neighbours, check-in on them however you can and make sure they are safe too. Local government will be

communicating through your phone’s emergency text service. In the event of natural disasters, only leave the safety of your home when invited to. IF ALREADY IN A CAR If you get caught by a

storm or a flood while driving, park on the side of the road away from slopes, trees and pylons. Then turn on hazard lights and call emergency services, either _sapeurs-pompiers_ at 18 or

the European emergency number at 112. READ ALSO PHOTOS: GIANT HAIL, FLOODS, A TORNADO IN NORMANDY AS STORMS HIT FRANCE HOW WILL WEATHER BE IN MY FRENCH TOWN IN 2050? NEW TOOL HELPS FIND OUT