Jumping in the pool on a hot summer’s day is one of life’s great pleasures. It’s fun, cools you down, the kids love it and it’s a great way to exercise.
However, as we all know, spending too much time in the sun drastically increases your risk of developing skin cancer. Not to mention premature ageing, rashes and itchiness, eye damage and also painful sunburns.
Thankfully, staying sun smart in the pool is fairly simple.
Apply sunscreen:
For all water activities, use a water resistant, broad spectrum SPF 30 and above. Apply at least 20 minutes before jumping in the water and every 2 hours after.
If possible, get someone to help you put sunscreen on all exposed skin.
Ensure you’re teaching younger ones good sunscreen habits. Remember, actions speak louder than words.
Cover up:
Wear a UV resistant rash top and high UPF (Ultraviolet Protection Factor) swim shorts, or one piece.
Stay in the pool’s shaded areas.
Also, ensure to wear a broad brim hat and wraparound sunglasses.
Don’t swim during the hottest parts of the day:
From around 1pm-4pm, the sun will be at its highest point.
Heat continues to build up after noon, when the sun is the highest. Therefore, by 3pm you’re more likely to get burnt than any other time of the day.
We advise you keep your swimming to the mornings and evenings.
Be a good role model:
It’s important to instil safe swimming in children from a young age.
Avoid tanning and getting burnt – there is no such thing as a healthy tan.
Finally, ensure that you and your family have fun around the pool! Make the most of the summer weather while it lasts, but stay safe.
