Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap this Summer!

05 Jan 2021
Aquatics, Health & Fitness, Sports Health & Wellness

Summer is here and with the sun shining so wonderfully and the heat turning up, outdoor activities, beach trips and visits to the pool are far too tempting to pass up! As keen as we all are to head straight outdoors or dive right into the water, it is super important that we use effective sun protection and remind others to do the same. 

As beautiful as the summer sunshine may be, excessive exposure to the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation can increase the risk of skin cancer, including melanoma. However, there are numerous precautions and measures we can all take to prevent the negative health risks and keep our skin in healthy form during summer and throughout the year. 

You may already be familiar with the SunSmart program and the renowned slogan, “Slip, Slop, Slap and Wrap”. If you do know of this, fantastic! You can help to remind others of how easily they can protect themselves from excessive exposure to the sun’s UV radiation. If you need a refresher, we’ve got you covered!  

Practice the best forms of protection from the sun! 

Protect yourself when you're outside from September to April by following these important sun protection measures: 

  • Slip into the shade and slip on a shirt with long sleeves – seek shade of an umbrella or a leafy tree. Plan your outdoor activities for early or later in the day when the sun's UV levels are lower. 

  • Slop on sunscreen – use plenty of broad-spectrum, water resistant sunscreen of at least SPF 30. Apply 20 minutes before going outside and reapply every two hours and especially after being in water, sweating or towelling off.  

  • Slap on a hat – wear a hat with a wide brim or a cap with flaps. More people are sunburnt on the face and neck than any other part of the body. 

  • Wrap on sunglasses – choose close fitting, wrap around style sunglasses. Not all sunglasses protect against UV radiation, so always check the label for the sun protection rating. 

Read more here: https://www.sunsmart.org.nz/be-sunsmart  (Source: Health Promotion Agency, New Zealand) 

So, each time you pack your bag ready to spend a day outdoors this summer, remember to bring these essentials. Don’t forget to apply your sunscreen early enough so that you don’t get a sunburn surprise, or even apply before leaving home. This is particularly helpful when travelling in a car with exposure to sunshine for longer durations, as sunshine through car windows is also a common cause of sunburns. Stay SunSmart this summer, and most of all, don’t forget to enjoy your favourite outdoor activities! 

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