There’s no argument that summer is officially well under way. The UK’s recent heatwaves are enough to rival Greece and Barcelona, so there’s no need to go abroad when you can sunbathe in the garden and catch a tan. Already, temperatures are 5-8℃ above average for the time of the year. Whether your driving somewhere with your cycle carrier to spend the day on a bike ride or simply spending time outdoors soaking up the sun, make sure you take precautions to stay safe in the heat. Already officials are gearing up to offer people help to survive the scorching heat and treat victims of heatstroke, as Dr Thomas Waite of Public Health England says; ‘the summer heat can bring real health risks’. Here are some helpful tips and advice to stay safe in the sun.

Of course the warm weather gives many of us the excuse to spend the day in a beer garden, drinking a refreshing pint and socialising. With the World Cup celebrations in full swing, there is no doubt that every pub will be bursting at the seams with football supporters and enthusiasts. So make sure to drink plenty of water and be cautious when consuming your drinks, as alcohol increases the chances of dehydration. Also bear in mind that packed pubs may prove to be more uncomfortable than usual, with the added body heat only making the conditions worse.
Anyone with a job in labour or who works outside should take with them plenty of water bottles that they can refill during the day. Doing physical activity increases the chances of dehydration so take more water to work than normal and make sure you rest between tasks. You’re no use to work if you faint or get sick! Swap your morning coffee for cold water and ensure you stay hydrated during the day, treat your body like it’s on holiday by increasing your water intake.

Wearing sun cream in this weather is just common sense, but you would be surprised at the amount of people who forget to apply. When your on holiday this is apart of your everyday routine, but at home in the UK it is easy to forget or disregard the protective lotion as we don’t expect to catch the sun in England. Particularly if you’re spending all day outside walking or even gardening, it is easy to forget to re-apply during the day so make sure you set yourself a reminder. Tell someone close to you that day to remind you to re-apply or watch out if your skin is feeling too hot, even set a reminder on your phone to go off at a certain time if you are alone in the garden. Most especially for younger children and older adults, watch out for the sun’s effects on them as these are the people who tend to feel it the most. Cover your head to prevent sunburn, catching the sun on your head is a guaranteed way to cause headaches, heatstroke and sometimes nausea. There’s nothing worse than having sore, burned skin for weeks waiting for it to heal.

If you are heading to the beach or the park, it’s a good idea to take a sun umbrella with you to provide some much needed shade and break from the sun. This is helpful for families with children as the sun can affect them quickly, so a umbrella is a simple way to protect them. For anyone heading to the beach, a sun tent is a fun way to make your own shade to get out of the sun. Particularly in the middle of the day when the sun is at its peak, it’s a good idea to get yourself somewhere cool and with plenty of shade. That way it will be easier to stay in the sun longer as your likely to feel less tired and overheated. Also, babies under six months old should be kept out of direct sunlight, so make sure if you are going outside to cover them in loose clothing and keep them in the shade. The dangers of the heat are more relevant in the UK now more than ever, with the warmest day of the year being recorded in Hawarden, Wales at a scorching 30.2℃ on Tuesday 26th June. Topping last year with the warmest day recorded at 29.1℃. So it’s more important now than ever to take care in the sun and protect yourself from any potential harm the heat can bring.

Of course it’s always good to know that your favourite accessories are a great form of protection against the suns rays, sunglasses are no exception. Not only do they shield your eyes from the glare of the sun but they prevent your eyes from straining which can lead to headaches. Such a simple solution to a otherwise uncomfortable situation. For people with fair skin or skin conditions, the best thing to do is wear long loose clothing. You don’t need to suffer by thinking you can’t journey outside, as long as your protected and aware there should be no problems. The loose clothes will be a great way to keep cool and prevent any of the sun’s rays from doing harm to your skin. It’s also a good idea to take a coverup with you wherever you go in the sun, so if you get sunburn on your shoulders you can easily protect your damaged skin from further risk. This is a convenient way to relieve any sore sunburn and prevent more harm, as burned skin always catches the sun quicker than anywhere else. If you are out during the day and have no way of getting home anytime soon, make sure you prepare and stay safe in the sun.

The sun is really focusing on the UK this summer with at least eight predicted heatwaves. While its good for those of us who aren’t going on holiday this year to have our share of warm weather, this comes with dangers that need to be prepared for. Keep stocked up on suncream, even if you are only out for a short walk don’t take any risk with the sun and keep your skin protected. Remain hydrated with plenty of water, most especially if you are taking part in any physical activity during the day. Also, make sure to keep in the shade every while and again and give yourself a break from the unforgiving sun. Enjoy the weather but remain cautious of the dangers, keep safe in the sun this summer.