Sunburn and Heat Exhaustion - what to do and when to seek help!

To avoid sunburn:

1.  Always wear appropriate sunscreen, apply liberally over face and body and re-apply every 2-3 hours.
2. Take particular care if swimming or boating as water intensifies the sun’s rays
3. Dress the children in tightly woven opaque clothes ideally with a sun factor rating
4. Regularly go indoors or move into shade.
5. Avoid being in the sun between 11:00 am and 3:00pm, when the sun's rays are strongest.
6. Wear a hat, ideally with an SPF factor, wide brim and ear cover.
7. Wear sunglasses.
8. Protect little ones in the car and buggy too and use sun shades.

 
If a child is sunburnt they will need medical attention:

First Aid for sunburn
Cool under a tepid shower for at least 10 minutes, or apply repeated cool wet towels for 15 minutes. When completely cooled, apply neat Aloe Vera gel to the affected area, this will soothe, reduce swelling and promote healing. Drink plenty and take Paracetamol for the pain. Seek medical advice.

Keep hydrated
It is vitally important to drink plenty in the heat - even if you do not feel thirsty. Continually encourage little ones to drink lots of water as dehydration can quickly lead to heat exhaustion.

Heat exhaustion can come on suddenly following exposure to the sun, causing a raised temperature, nausea, dizziness, a head ache, or stomach cramps and can lead to collapse.

First Aid for heat exhaustion:
Re-hydrate fast, ideally with Dioralyte, water or an isotonic sports drink. Seek medical advice.

Key advice: Combine sufficient sunscreen, appropriate clothing and shade with lots of drinks, and enjoy the summer!
First Aid for life provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. First Aid for Life is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information. The best way to be prepared for action in an emergency is to attend a practical First Aid course.

First Aid for life provides this information for guidance and it is not in any way a substitute for medical advice. First Aid for Life is not responsible or liable for any diagnosis made, or actions taken based on this information. It is strongly advised that you attend a practical First Aid course to understand what to do in a medical emergency.

For more information please visit www.firstaidforlife.org.uk