Safety in the sun is something some of us may forget while we are busy basking in the glorious weather. In fact, even on a cloudy day there are still some very real risks to us and our children. We give you some helpful tips on how to protect your children in the sun, so you and your family can enjoy a relaxing, burn-free holiday!
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When your child is out in the sunshine whether in the UK or abroad, they need to be protected. We have some top tips to help you keep your child safe in the sun.
- Remember you can burn in the UK - The Great British sun is quite capable of burning your child! Take extra care at home as well as abroad.
- Know the shadow rule - If your shadow is longer than you are, then you are safe from the sun. When your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun can burn you.
- Use shade - Keep babies in complete shade: under trees, umbrellas, canopies or indoors.
- Cover them up - Dress children in cotton clothing that is baggy, close-weave and cool. Oversized T-shirts are good for covering most of their skin.
- Use dry clothing - Remember that wet clothing stretches and can lose up to half of its UV protection - put children in dry clothing after playing in water.
- Protect shoulders and necks - Don't put children in vest tops or sundresses if they are spending a lot of time outdoors - shoulders and backs of necks get easily burned.
- Wear sunglasses - Buy good quality, wraparound sunglasses for children, as soon as they can wear them. Sunglasses don't have to be expensive brands, but toy sunglasses can do more harm than good.
- Find hats they like - Encourage children to wear hats with brims, especially if they are not wearing sunglasses. The wider the brim, the more skin will be shaded from the sun.
- Use sunscreen wisely - Apply factor 15+ sunscreen before children go outdoors. Then reapply often to be sure of good coverage. Don't forget their shoulders, nose, ears, cheeks and tops of feet.
