12 Tips of Christmas: Be sun safe this summer

This advice follows the release of alarming statistics which found that of children who were sunburnt in the past 12 months, 69% were most recently sunburnt during a water-based activity. 

The research also found that frequent sunscreen use while outdoors in the summer months was only reported for 64.3% of children. This was higher among younger children (5-7 years) than older children (16-17 years).

Frequent use of sun-appropriate clothing while outdoors in the summer was only reported for 48.5% in children aged 5-7 years.

SLSQ’s Community Awareness Manager Helen Hallett said as a community we need to be reminded to look after our skin. 

“We all love a day at the beach but our Queensland sun can be unforgiving on our skin,” she said. 

“Being sun safe at the beach is more than just slopping on some sunscreen. Our advice is to wear hats, sun shirts or rashies in the water, seek shade by bringing an umbrella to the beach and protect your eyes by wearing sunglasses.

“We must pass on good habits now to the next generation, so it becomes second nature for them when they visit the beach. 

“And if you’re running short on sunscreen, keep an eye out for the Surf Life Saving Queensland Surf Crew team who will be distributing free sunscreen during the school holidays at Gold and Sunshine Coast beaches.”  

SLSQ reminds everyone to maintain 1.5 metres social distancing when visiting the beach this summer. 

“She’ll be right, won’t save your life.” Be a legend not a hero this summer by swimming between the red and yellow flags.