Sun Safety: Enjoy the Summer Safely

Summer is a great time to get outdoors, enjoy fresh air and spend time with family and friends. However, it is important to protect your skin and stay well when the weather is warm.

Sunburn can happen in the UK, even on cloudy days. Taking a few simple steps can help reduce your risk of sunburn, dehydration and heat-related illness.

Protect your skin

When spending time outside, remember to:

• Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30
• Choose sunscreen with good UVA protection, ideally 4-star UVA protection or above
• Apply sunscreen generously and reapply regularly, especially after sweating, swimming or towelling
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
• Cover up with loose, lightweight clothing
• Spend time in the shade when the sun is strongest

In the UK, the sun is usually strongest between 11am and 3pm from March to October. NHS advice recommends spending time in the shade during these hours where possible.

Keep hydrated

Warmer weather can make you lose more fluid through sweating. Try to drink water regularly throughout the day, especially if you are outside, exercising, travelling or caring for children or older relatives.

You can also help others by checking in on people who may be more affected by heat, including older people, babies and young children, and people with long-term health conditions.

Look out for signs of sunburn or overheating

Move into shade or indoors if you start to feel too hot, dizzy, weak, thirsty or unwell. If your skin becomes red, painful, hot or blistered after being in the sun, keep out of the sun and seek advice if you are concerned.

For urgent medical help when it is not an emergency, use NHS 111 online or call 111.

Enjoy the sunshine safely

A few small steps can make a big difference:

Sunscreen. Shade. Water. Hat. Sunglasses.

Let’s make this summer a healthy one.