Summer is almost here, although judging by some of the weather lately, it seems to have arrived early!
Hot weather brings with it some challenges that the cold weather doesn’t. Dehydration, heat stress, sunburn… summer can be pretty dangerous!
Are you at risk of heat-related illness?
Under certain conditions, anyone can be at risk of heat-related illness but at greater risk are those who are:
- exposed to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest part of the day.
- exposed to reflected heat from construction materials, polished aluminium and glass.
- carrying out strenuous tasks or work for sustained long periods.
- who are exposed to additional heat from machinery.
- in hotter parts of the country, such as northern parts of Queensland.
Sun exposure can cause permanent and irreversible damage to the skin and increase your risk of skin cancer. You’re at risk of exposure to ultraviolet radiation (UV radiation) from the sun, even when it’s cloudy. While UV levels are certainly present in winter, it’s in summer that the UV index really increases to danger levels.
So what can you do?
- Download the Cancer Council SunSmart app, which allows you to access the latest information on UV levels and weather forecasts. Find it at cancer.org.au.
- Remember to slip, slop, slap and to stay in the shade wherever possible.
- Drink sufficient water throughout the day.
- Avoid being outside in the hottest part of the day.
- Check your skin regularly for changes – find out how here.
- Get your skin checked by a doctor at least once a year. Why not start 2020 with one?
