Keeping cool and safe in hot weather

Sun safety tips

In the UK, we can experience heatwaves in the summer and early autumn, as well as damaging levels of UV from March to October.

If you're spending long days on campus, attending outdoor study sessions and social events, or involved in outdoor sports, then make sure to be prepared.

 

5 S's of Sun Safety 

Here are five ways to reduce your risk in the sun. These are particularly important during peak UV times between 11am and 3pm, even when it's cloudy. 

• Remember to slip on light layers or even a thin scarf over your shoulders and arms to protect your skin and reduce your chances of sunburn, especially when the UV is high.  
• ALWAYS slop on suncream with UVA and UVB protection before you go outside and keep reapplying throughout the day. Make sure to check it hasn't gone past its expiration date.
• Slap on a wide-brimmed hat, like a bucket hat, to protect your face, ears and neck in hot weather. You can wear a cap, but it's unlikely to protect your ears and neck.
• Seek shade where you can in the day, either under trees or bring an umbrella with you. It's important to take breaks from direct UV exposure. Not only can this prevent sunburn, but it can also prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke.
• Slide on some sunglasses. Make sure you're protecting your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses.

 

Staying cool in hot weather 

During heat waves and hot summers, you might start to feel a bit warm in communal spaces or when you're trying to sleep. There are a few things you can do to help:

• Keep rooms cool by closing blinds and curtains during the day
• Wear cool, light clothing 
• Drink plenty of water and other cool drinks
• Get a desk fan to keep your room cool
• Take a cold shower before bed
• Open windows at night for ventilation
• Consider using a sheet or just a duvet cover instead of the whole duvet

Bonus tip: Fill a bottle halfway with water and leave it in the freezer overnight. In the morning, fill the rest, and then you'll have icy water to keep you cool throughout the day.

 
We know that as soon as the sun comes out you just want to get outside, but you can't forget about sun protection before going to read your book in the park! It's important to look after yourself, so make sure you drink plenty of water and apply suncream!