Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek and Slide this Summer!

05 Jan 2021
Aquatics, Health & Fitness, Sports Health & Wellness, 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 Cancer Council’s national SunSmart program and the renowned slogan, “Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide”. 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! 

For best protection, when the UV level is 3 or above, the Cancer Council recommends using a combination of sun protection measures: 

  • Slip on some sun-protective clothing – that covers as much skin as possible. This could include a sun vest, board shorts, or other sun protection clothing such as a protective t-shirt with a high neckline and longer sleeves. 

  • Slop on broad spectrum, water resistant SPF30 or higher sunscreen. Put it on 20 minutes before you go outdoors and every two hours afterwards. Sunscreen should never be used to extend the time you spend in the sun. Don’t forget to reapply sunscreen more frequently after perspiration, swimming and towelling off. 

  • Slap on a hat – that protects your face, head, neck and ears. Opt for one with wide coverage similar to a broad brimmed hat, legionnaires hat or bucket hat. 

  • Seek shade – try to find a source of shade to remain in for most of your day, whether this is under a shady tree, a beach umbrella, beach hut, gazebo or under a shelter. 

  • Slide on some sunglasses – make sure they meet Australian standards. 

Be extra cautious in the middle of the day when UV levels are most intense. 
Read more here: https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/preventing-skin-cancer (Source: The Cancer Council Australia) 

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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