Who's ready for summer?!

Whilst it's very exciting that we'll be seeing more sun, it can be easy to forget the importance of sun safety. Long campus days, outdoor study sessions and socials (a few pub gardens) will be a lot of fun, but you can't forget your suncream.

Staying safe in the sun

The 5 S's of Sun Safety are crucial when entering your summer era. 

• SLIP on a t-shirt. Add light layers over your shoulders and arms to protect your skin, even a thin scarf can be a great sun protector. 
• SLOP on sun cream with a high protection factor and apply at least 20 minutes before you go outside. Don't forget to keep applying throughout the day.
• SLAP on a wide-brimmed hat (like a bucket hat) to protect your face, ears and neck. If you only have a cap, you can wear that too, however, it may not protect your neck and ears, so just be wary!
• SEEK shade where you can. That includes trees, bringing an umbrella with you or even stepping into a shop for 10 minutes. When the UV is high, it's important to take breaks from direct exposure as it will prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke as well as sunburn. UV peak times are usually between 11:00-15:00.
• SLIDE those sunnies on! Make sure you're protecting your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses.

Staying cool in hot weather

With the temperatures rising, you may find yourself being a bit hot and bothered. It can get humid in communal spaces and when you're trying to sleep. There are things you can do, though, to reduce feeling overstimulated by the heat and make sure you get a good night's rest: 

☀️ Wear cool clothing: not 'cool' in the fashion way, we mean light clothing!

☀️ Drink plenty of water: avoid hot drinks like teas and coffees throughout the day, and make sure you stay hydrated.

☀️ Close blinds/curtains during the day: it's such a simple, easy way to keep your rooms cooler. 

At night:

😴 Take a cold shower before bed.

😴 Open windows at night for ventilation.

😴 Consider using your duvet cover instead of the whole duvet.

Pro tip: fill a water bottle up halfway on an evening and pop it in the freezer. In the morning, top it up with more water, and you'll have icy water to keep you cool through the day.

Life may feel 10x better when the suns out and you're sunbathing in the local park, but it's important to look after yourself in the heat, make sure you stay hydrated and apply plenty of suncream throughout the day 🌤️