As weather forecasters predict a sustained spell of hot weather across Lanarkshire this weekend, health experts are advising people to remember to take care in the sun.
Public Health specialists in Lanarkshire are advising people to take care in the sun, particularly children (especially those aged 5 and under, the elderly and those with chronic diseases).
Dr Nick Riches, Public Health Registrar, has called for people to take some simple steps to look after their health in the sun.
Dr Riches said: “The next few days are predicted to be very warm, so it’s understandable that people want to enjoy spending time outside. There are some sensible actions that everyone can take to ensure they stay healthy while enjoying the weather.
“People should try to avoid being in direct sunlight during the hottest part of the day between 12 noon and 3pm.
“Replenishing fluids is really important to reduce the risk of becoming dehydrated in the heat. Everyone should be careful to take extra liquids (cold tap water is ideal), at regular intervals.
“It is important to keep indoor temperatures comfortable, particularly for those who are less able to control their body temperature such as young children, the elderly and those with chronic medical conditions.
“Consider closing curtains during the hottest part of the day and opening windows when it’s cooler outside, such as the early morning or late evening. Check in on neighbours, friends or relatives who may struggle with the heat, especially those who live alone.”
Doctors are also asking people to access their local health services appropriately ensuring those patients who require emergency medical care can be seen as quickly as possible
Many people in Scotland have fair or sensitive skin and are at higher risk of sunburn and long-term skin damage and there are simple steps that everyone can take to stay protected. Children are particularly vulnerable to sun exposure. Babies under 6 months shouldn’t be out in direct sun at all, and young children should be kept in the shade where possible and protected with suitable clothing, hats, and high-factor sun cream. A wide range of sun protection products is available specifically for infants and children—there is no reason for them to be overexposed to the sun.
Dr Riches is also stressing the importance of food safety as we dust down the BBQ.
He said: “It’s really important to take care when cooking on a barbeque too – particularly with chicken which must be cooked thoroughly and piping hot all the way through. If chicken isn’t cooked properly, there’s a high risk of salmonella—a type of bacteria that can cause serious stomach upset and food poisoning.
“Whoever is in charge of the cooking also needs to make sure that they are using different utensils and chopping boards for vegetables, raw chicken and other raw meat to prevent cross-contamination.
“The aim for everyone is to have an enjoyable weekend, in this much anticipated warm spell, while avoiding becoming dehydrated or developing sunburn or food poisoning – which can quickly spoil the fun!”
Simple rules to stay sun-burn free and hydrated:
- limit your time in the midday sun and use shade wisely;
- wear protective clothing;
- a hat with a wide brim offers good sun protection for your eyes, ears, face and the back of your neck;
- use a sun-cream with adequate protection for your skin type
- drink plenty of water to replenish the fluids lost in the heat.
Further information is available on the NHS Inform website at https://www.nhsinform.scot/healthy-living/outdoor-health/how-to-stay-safe-in-hot-weather/
