Summer is a chance for families and friends to get out and about and explore and enjoy life. Keep in mind some simple tips for staying safe with the family this summer.

Never leave kids alone in water

Even the most confident of swimmers can run foul of dangerously deceptive rip tides in the sea, or can be overcome if out of their depth in a crowded pool. Stay with them in water, or be vigilant nearby.

Sunscreen

This goes without saying, but tender skin can burn so easily in even the mildest sun. Get the cream on early in the day, and top up every 2 hours, more often if in and out of water. Factor 50 is best for all children, keeping at least Factor 30 on yourself and older teens allows for a little sun but still with protection

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Seek shade

If sitting out and enjoying hot sun, from time to time give yourself a break from the sun and get into the shade, even for 5 minutes, whether getting a drink or snack or running an errand. Heat exhaustion can creep up on you unknown and can cause serious symptoms.

Sunglasses

Treat yourself to a really good pair of sunglasses. Polarised sunglasses reduce the glare from the water, road and paths, and are much more comfortable to wear than standard sunglasses, keeping harmful rays as well as annoying glare out of your eyes.

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Stop bites and stings

Your susceptibility to mosquito and other insect bites depends on a few variables - scent, light, heat and humidity. There are a few steps you can take to naturally keep insects away, such as wearing long sleeved or legged clothings, wearing only light colours and avoiding sitting out during dawn or dusk. However, a good bug or mosquito spray can help keep these pests at bay, and make the summer months more pleasant. Product placement here.
Some tips for using these sprays include:

  • Do not use spray on eyes, mouth, cuts or irritated skin. Spray the repellent onto your hands first, then apply to a yours or your child's face
  • Do not spray onto skin under clothing.
  • Apply sunscreen first and insect repellent second, not the other way around
  • Be sure to cover all areas not covered by clothing.
  • Reapply after swimming, washing or sweating
Louisa Maher