Staying Safe in the Sun

When the weather is warm, it’s a great time to go outside and have fun, but it’s important to stay safe and look after yourself. Try to drink plenty of water during the day and take breaks in the shade, especially when the sun is strongest. Wearing light clothes and keeping rooms cool by closing blinds/curtains can help stop you getting too hot or feeling unwell.

It’s also important to protect your skin by using sun cream and wearing a hat or sunglasses if you can, as the sun can burn your skin even when it doesn’t feel that hot. If you are spending time with friends or family doing things like BBQs, make sure they are used safely. Never leave a BBQ on its own, keep it away from grass and buildings and let it cool down fully before moving or throwing it away, as it can stay very hot for a long time and cause fires or burns.

If you go to the beach or near the sea, be careful because the water can be dangerous even on sunny days. The tide can come in quickly and some areas can be deeper or muddier than they look, so it’s important to plan ahead, check tide times and stay alert. Always stay close to people you trust and keep an eye on younger children. If you ever get into trouble in the water, try to stay calm, float on your back and control your breathing until help arrives.

Remembering the “Float to Live” advice - tilt your head back, relax, control your breathing and gently move your hands and legs to stay afloat - can help save lives. 

Looking after each other is just as important as looking after yourself, so check on your friends, family, and others around you if they seem too hot or unwell. By doing these simple things, you can enjoy the sunshine and still stay safe.