Staying safe this summer

Sun and heat protection

With our summers getting hotter, it’s important to remember to eat, stay hydrated and wear suncream when the temperatures increase. 

Suncream should be SPF 30 or higher, and ideally waterproof to make sure you’re fully protected. You should also ensure you reapply your suncream regularly and avoid being in direct sunlight during the hottest parts of the day (11am-3pm) if possible.

Wearing hats, UV-protection sunglasses and lightweight, light-coloured loose-fitting clothing will help protect your skin, eyes and keep you cool in the sun.

Hydration is key - drink plenty of water, a great way to get extra hydration in is to eat foods with higher water contents, this could be things like cucumber or melon.

Water safety

Although open water may look safe, calm and refreshing it can also be dangerous and just because you can swim in a pool doesn’t mean you can swim in cold water. It is not recommended to swim in open water and definitely not alone.

Dangers can be:

• Very cold temperatures
• Hidden currents
• Fast flowing water like locks or weirs
• Deeper water than expected
• Hidden rubbish and debris to get caught on
• No lifeguards
• Hard to get out with steep, slippery or crumbly banks

If you spot someone in open waters call 999 and provide the fire service with an accurate location using what3words or landmarks.

Home safety

To help keep your house cool, keep curtains and blinds closed during the day with windows open, and open your windows in the evenings when the temperature drops.

Make sure you are vigilant around flames when BBQing - don’t leave them unattended, or use them indoors, in a tent or on a balcony. Keep BBQs away from flammable items and don’t leave the coal unattended to go out as these could catch fire.

Summer is a great time to enjoy yourselves. With the World Cup approaching and temperatures rising, it’s only natural that more people will be spending time outdoors. Stay safe and make the most of it!