A cautionary note to prevent the heat effects on human health

The deaths of two British tourists caused by heat in the island of Gran Canaria last May while conducting outdoor physical exercise leads us to make several reflections. We discuss the subject on, the adaptation of the people to the heat, the vulnerability of individuals over 65. years and the effectiveness of prevention plans against heat waves. This study questions the appropriateness of the activation timing of these plans by the Ministry of Health, Social Services and Equality, and also questions the temperature thresholds established for their implementation. © 2012 Elsevier B.V.Peer Reviewe