Staying sun safe throughout the summer
Did you know 59% of UK children have been sunburnt at least once! It's officially the school holidays and for many children the next few weeks will be full of lots of playing outdoors, day trips out and for some, holidays away in hot locations.
Whether staying in the UK or travelling abroad, staying safe in warm weather can be hard, especially for children who sweat less than adults making it difficult to cool down easily. Here are some tips to keep your children safe and cool this summer holiday.
Stay in the shade
Keeping children out of the sun altogether during the hottest part of the day, between 11:00 and 15:00 is the easiest way to keep them safe. However this isn't always possible when you are out and about. So if you do go out in the heat, try to stay in the shade or duck into buildings where you can. In the garden use a parasol to create a shaded area. If you are heading to the beach, why not go later when it's cooler in the evening and the sun is not as strong.
Use sunscreen and wear sun protective clothing
Children's skin can burn within just 15 minutes of sun exposure, so make sure they are protected and apply sunscreen before going outside. Reapply every two hours throughout the day. Even if sunscreen is described as "water repellent" or "water resistant", it should still be reapplied after swimming as saltwater, sand and towel drying can all rub it off.
Dress children in loose fitting lightweight clothing so they don't overheat and ensure they are wearing a hat and sunglasses to help protect them from UV rays.
Boost water intake through food
It can be hard to keep children hydrated and getting them to drink enough water in warm weather can be a difficult task. Giving them foods that contain a lot of water will help boost their hydration. For younger children over a year old, try making frozen ice lollies from plain water with a hint of diluted fruit juice. For older children up their juicy fruit intake, watermelons, grapes and oranges have a high water content.
Know the signs for heat exhaustion and heat stroke
If you child feels faint or is dizzy, has nausea or is vomiting, has clammy skin, is confused and has muscle cramps, these can all be signs of heat exhaustion. Move them into a cooler area, give them water and apply a cool damp cloth to skin. If symptoms do not improve within 30 mins or they lose consciousness, this is heat stroke and a medical emergency so seek help from 999.
Our work with cancer awareness
Although cases of skin cancer are very low in children, sun safety starting in early years can help towards prevention later in life. Our Communities Against Cancer project works with VCSE's to provide cancer awareness information, training, and grants to help support local communities. You can find out more about this project through this link.