The UK has already experienced several heatwaves this summer, and even though the sun hasn’t been shining in recent days, the temperature is predicted to heat up again in August. Therefore, we have put together some tips to keep you safe for when the sun returns.
When the temperature rises, make sure to:
- Use a high protection sunscreen of at least SFF 30, which also has a UVA protection. Apply a generous amount and apply frequently, especially if you are spending a lot of time outdoors.
- You can protect your skin by wearing a loose fitting t-shirt and shorts. To protect your face, pop on a hat and some sunglasses.
- Try and not be in direct sunlight between the hours of 11am-3pm as this is when the sun is strongest.
- Keep babies, young children and pets out of direct sunlight.
- Never leave children, anyone vulnerable or pets in a parked locked car.
- Never exercise pets when the temperature is very high. A regular walk could become a medical emergency.
- Always test pavements, footpaths and slabs in gardens and communal areas. If it’s too hot on your hand, it’s too hot for your pet.
- Make sure to drink plenty of water.
- If there are any changes to a mole or mark on your skin, book an appointment with your doctor to make sure everything is ok.
BBQ Safety
- Never use a BBQ (including disposables) indoors or on your balcony.
- Don’t cook in communal areas. Have your barbecues in a private space, away from neighbours and well away from sheds, fences, trees or shrubs.
- Keep children, garden games and pets well away from the BBQ.
- Have a bucket of water/sand or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency. If you’re using a gas BBQ, make sure you know how to cut the gas supply.
- Never leave your barbecue unattended.
- Smoke can get into hair, clothes, eyes and lungs, and can also contain carbon monoxide and other dangerous substances. Try and keep your distance as much as possible.
- Grilling gloves and utensils with a long handle will keep arms and hands safe from flames.
- Check your food is cooked: ideally, burgers, chicken and sausages should be tested with a thermometer before eating and no pink meat should be visible.
- After you have finished cooking, check the charcoal is cold or the gas has been turned off. Store your barbecue in a safe, dry place and not on your balcony.
If you have an emergency while having a BBQ, please call 999.
Tip to keep you and your home cool this summer
- Take lukewarm or cool showers
- Close your windows, doors, curtains and blinds closed during a heatwave to keep the hot air out. When the sun goes down, open your windows and doors to let the cool air in.
- An electric fan is relatively cheap to run and will instantly cool you down. Remember, the fan will not decrease the air temperature, so don’t leave a fan in an empty room, as you will waste energy.
- At night, you might think it’s better to not wear anything, but wearing thin loose clothing will act as a sweat barrier between you and your bed sheets, which will help you feel cooler.
To read more about sun safety, here are some useful websites:
www.britishskinfoundation.org.uk
www.nhs.uk/live-well/seasonal-health/sunscreen-and-sun-safety/