Ensure Sun Safety for Your Children This Summer

New research from the Met Office and NHS England’s #CoverUpMate skin cancer campaign highlights concerning views on sun care among UK parents.

The study, surveying 1,000 parents of children under 11, found that over a third believe a tan signifies good health rather than skin damage. However, childhood sunburn is strongly linked to an increased risk of skin cancer in later life, making sun protection crucial.

Additionally, the survey reported that 25% of parents encourage their children to tan, with some even allowing young children to sunbathe or use UV sunbeds. These actions, often stemming from a lack of awareness about sun damage, underline a critical need for better understanding among parents about the risks of UV exposure.

Key Findings:

• 7% are unaware of UV rays’ role in causing burns and cancer.
• 15% do not realize UV exposure is possible on cloudy days.
• Nearly half mistakenly think they can feel UV rays when the sun is strong.
• About 20% are unaware that UV risks peak from May to September.

Only a minority of parents regularly check daily UV forecasts, with 40% never doing so.

Expert Recommendations for Sun Safety

Clare Nasir, a Met Office meteorologist, emphasized the importance of daily UV checks, particularly as UV levels are highest from May through September. Nigel Acheson, NHS England’s Medical Director for the South Region, advised that babies under six months should stay in the shade, especially between 11 am and 3 pm, and children should wear protective clothing and high-SPF sunscreen.

Sun Safety Tips:

• Ensure children play in the shade, particularly between 11 am and 3 pm.
• Keep infants under six months out of direct sunlight during peak hours.
• Use SPF 15+ sunscreen on exposed skin, even on overcast days, and reapply frequently.
• Protect shoulders and necks with hats, and dress children in loose cotton clothing.
• Sunglasses should meet the British Standard BSEN 1836:2005 with a “CE” mark.
• For swimming, apply a waterproof sunblock SPF 15+ and reapply after toweling.

For more tips, visit NHS Choices.