Fun - not sunburn - this summer

Marking the beginning of school holidays, Ulster Unionist Party health spokesperson John McCallister MLA has urged parents to take extra special care of their children's skin this year as we enter what is predicted to be an unusually warm summer.

"In Northern Ireland we really aren't used to high temperatures and the dangers that come with strong sunshine. We have a tendency to enjoy it without thinking of the consequences.

"Although we should of course get the most out of our summer, people really do need to take extra precautions when out and about, particularly with babies and young children," the South Down MLA said.

"The obvious worry is sunburn - painful, dangerous and can accelerate the ageing process - but it's still something that we get caught out with each and every year. Keep applying sunscreen every two hours, especially if it's been exposed to water, as it will lose its effectiveness.

"If you do want to sunbathe, only do it for short periods and if you're feeling off colour, move indoors. The best option, though not so popular, is of course to stay under an umbrella or a seat in the shade.

"Although it's not something we tend to have to think about, dehydration, heat stroke and exhaustion can also be a worrying side-effect of holiday fun. Keep sipping water - or non carbonated soft drinks - throughout the day, eat cold foods like salad and fruit and generally just be sensible.

"Whatever you get up to, and wherever you go, best wishes for a great summer."