With the temperatures hotting up this week, it’s important to remind ourselves how to protect the family from the sun, so we can have maximum fun.
We are particularly lucky in Brighton and Hove, there are so many fabulous events on over the summer months, many them free or low cost, like Paddle Round The Pier this weekend. Which means we spend long periods of time outside, enjoying the activities. It’s essential to be prepared when out in the sun to avoid burning, prickly heat or heat exhaustion.
Wear Sunscreen…
…as Baz Luhrman said in 1999. We should all know by now the ins and outs of SPF but basically the higher the factor, the longer the protection in the sun. Broad spectrum products with a star rating are designed to protect you from both UVA and UVB rays. Recently BrightonMus.com tested this fun sun mousse, which the kids actually enjoyed applying themselves. The mistake busy parents often make is forgetting to put it on themselves! We’re so paranoid about slathering the kids to protect them from the sun’s harmful ray, we often do a sloppy job on ourselves. The expert advice is to apply sun protection at least 30 minutes before you go out in the sun, so steal a few minutes for yourself to get protected before you coat up the kids.
Cover up
These days we can buy clothing or swimwear with the level of SPF on the label, which is great for parents who are confused about which colours or types of fabric offer the best sun protection. Many parents swear by all in one suits or two pieces with at least 3/4 length sleeves and leggings, although these can stretch the budget a bit. Experts advise children and adults alike to wear wide brimmed hats but keeping them on your kids’ heads can be tricky. Keppi swim hats can be more comfortable and say on while running around and dipping in and out of the water.
Be Aware Of The Heat
There’s a reason why southern Europeans have long lunches and take siestas; to get out of the sun! And when us Brits get a whiff of a rare hot sunny day, it’s mad dog season. NHS advice on sun safety is to stay in the shade between 11am and 3pm, so find a tree, a festival tent or a sun umbrella during that time. Don’t fear, there will be more sunny days in your lifetime.
…And The Wind
Sometimes those Brighton windy days fool us into believing it’s not as hot as it seems. However, we can still burn, despite feeling a little chilly! Keep covered, put sun screen on exposed areas of skin (nose, arms, face, neck).
Good Hydratration
Most parents will carry a water bottle or drink with them on outings but in hotter weather it’s a good idea to guzzle fluids before setting off. Make sure you know where refill points are at your destination (and the loos!).
BrightonMums.com wish everyone lots of fun in the Brighton sun - be safe!
