Sunburn and heat stroke cause serious problems and are both preventable. 

• Increase sun exposure gradually, 20 minutes limit initially

• Wear protective clothing e.g. sun hats
• Avoid going out between 11am - 3pm, when the sun's rays are strongest
• Use sun blocks of adequate Sun Protection Factor strength (see below), and use them correctly.
• Take special care of children and those with pale skin/red hair
• Drink extra fluids in a hot climate
• Be aware that alcohol can make you dehydrated

You can get severe sunburn in the UK.

Visit Cancer Research  for further advice.

Always use sun screen of at least factor 15.  Factor 15 represents the best balance between protection and price.

• No sunscreen, no matter how high the factor, can offer 100% protection
• Factor 15 sunscreen offers about 93% protection
• Factor 30 sunscreen offers about 96% protection
• Factor 60 sunscreen offers about 98% protection

Use SPF 60 on any areas of recent scarring / skin damage.

• Make you only use sunscreen labelled 'broad spectrum', which will provide protection UVA and UVB
• Choose water resistant preparations, which are less likely to wash or be sweated off
• Check the 'use by' date.  Most sunscreens have a shelf life of 2-3 years
• You don't have to pay for expensive brands.  All types sold in the UK are tested and the cheaper brands are just as effective if used properly

• Try to apply 15-30 minutes before going out in the sun
• Apply to clean, dry skin and rub in only lightly
• Use generous amounts
• Re-apply once outside to ensure even coverage
• Then re-apply every 2 hours or more frequently if washed, rubbed or sweated off
• Put on before make-up, moisturiser, insect repellant etc
• Never use it to spend longer in the sun
• In hotter climates and hotter days in the UK avoid direct sun exposure between 11am and 3pm
• Do not store sunscreens in very hot places as extreme heat can ruin their protective chemicals