Ways to stay safe in the sun
It is important that, if you are in an area that is particularly sunny, you take steps to ensure that you and your family stay safe from increased UV levels.
The 5 S's of Sun Safety
Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide are the five steps you can take to protect you and your family during the hot weather.
- Slip on sun protective clothing like a t-shirt.
- Slop on sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher.
- Slap on a broad-brimmed hat.
- Seek shade whenever you can.
- Slide on some good quality sunglasses.
Other Sun Safety Tips
Other safety advice you can follow to help stay safe in the sunshine:
- Do NOT burn. If it feels like you are starting to burn cover up or find shade.
- Avoid sun tanning and tanning beds.
- Generously apply your sunscreen (Remember to use SPF 30 or higher).
- Use extra caution near water, snow and sand.
- Check the UV Index. You can get UV forecasts for UK and worldwide locations on the Met Office app.
- For iPhone the app is available from the App store.
- For Android the app is available from the Google Play Store.
Following the above advice will make sure you get the vitamin D your body needs in a natural way, and at the same time keep you protected in the hotter weather.
And remember to drink water often and take plenty with you on long journeys.
Useful information
- NHS Heatwave Plan for England guidance includes steps to reduce heat exposure risks (Page 25: Community and voluntary sector).
- NHS advice on actions to take to help people stay safe in hot weather
- UKHSA Heat-Health alert
- UKHSA Supporting vulnerable people before and during a heatwave: for health and social care professionals.