11/08/2026
Staying Safe in the Sun
This summer has already been very hot, and the heatwaves seem likely to continue. Heat and UV rays can have a significant impact on all our health.
UV rays:
Cause painful sunburn
Damage skin, causing premature ageing
Increase your risk of skin cancer
Can damage your eyes
Excessive or prolonged exposure to heat can lead to heat exhaustion, which can become heatstroke if the person is not cooled down and given fluids quickly.
The symptoms of heat exhaustion for both adults and children include:
Tiredness
Dizziness
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
Excessive sweating and skin becoming paler and clammy
Cramps in the arms, legs and stomach
High temperature
Being very thirsty
Feeling irritable
The symptoms of heatstroke include:
Very high temperature
Hot skin without sweating
Fast breathing and heartbeat
Confusion and restlessness
Seizure (fit)
Loss of consciousness
Heatstroke is a medical emergency. Get immediate medical help if someone has the symptoms of heatstroke. You can find out more at https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/heat-exhaustion-heatstroke/.
To stay safe in the sun, follow these handy tips:
Use the recommended amount of a good sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30, and at least 4-star protection against UVA rays, even if you have dark skin
Remember to reapply sunscreen when you have been swimming
Stay in the shade as much as you can to protect yourself from UV and extreme heat, particularly between 11am and 3pm in the UK
Wear UV-protective sunglasses, a wide brimmed hat, and loose, long-sleeved clothes to protect your skin and eyes and stay cool
Drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated
Learn more about sunscreen and staying safe, and take a fun quiz to find out how much you know at https://www.bbc.co.uk/newsround/48609398.
Temperatures are set to rise this week, but how much do you know about staying safe in the sun? Read our guide to find out more...