Keep your sunny side up (safely)
GETTING sunburned just once every two years can triple the risk of developing skin cancer, a specialist has warned.
Kevin O’Hagan, the Irish Cancer Society’s cancer prevention chief, has urged sunbathers to not only top up on suncream but also to wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to protect their eyes.
He said 240 Irish people die every year from skin cancer, and that heatwaves pose a real danger.
He said: ‘Getting repeated sunburn is a major factor for skin cancer. Getting sunburn once every two years can triple melanoma skin cancer. Be very careful. Wear clothing that covers your skin. ‘Wear a wide-brimmed hat and good sunglasses. You can get skin cancer on the eyes as well.’
Mr O’Hagan said many people don’t put enough sun lotion on and that for it to work effectively, children need SPF 50 and adults SPF 30. This must be put on 20 minutes before going outside and should be reapplied every two hours, he said.
Three quarters of children said they got sunburnt last year, he added, as he urged people not to try to tan as it damages skin.
Meanwhile, the RNLI is urging people to ensure they stay hydrated during the hot spell, which is expected to last all week.
‘Fluid is vital,’ an RNLI spokeswoman said. ‘Cooler weather can mean a flask of tea or soup but on any day make sure there is plenty of water for everyone, as the wind and sun can easily dehydrate you.
‘Alcohol is not a good idea. It affects judgment, leading to greater risk-taking behaviour. It’s not advisable to enter the water when you’ve been drinking, especially in the evening... Alcohol also contributes to dehydration, increasing the danger of heatstroke.’