Get the factor 50 out!

What time is it? Summer time! We're all so excited the sun's finally coming out, and the temperatures are going up. Outdoor study sessions, socials, (pub gardens), there's so much to look forward to!

But...

Sun safety is so important! If you're spending long days outdoors, either on campus or out with your mates, then listen up:

Staying cool in hot weather ⛱️

Temperatures are rising, and it may cause some frustrations, as the saying goes, being "hot and bothered". It can get humid in communal spaces and when you're trying to sleep, but don't worry, there are things you can do to get a good sleep and reduce feelings of being overstimulated when your shirt sticks to you when you're trying to study in the library:

✅ Wear cool, light clothing: heavier t-shirts/clothing tend to stick to you more in hot weather and can often cause you to feel warmer than you need to feel.

✅ Drink plenty of water and other cool drinks: avoid teas and coffees during the day.

✅ Keep rooms cool by closing blinds/curtains during the day: Keep a fan on to circulate the airflow and keep your room temperature cool.

At night:

😴 Open windows at night for ventilation

😴 Take a cold shower before bed

😴 Consider using your duvet cover instead of the whole duvet

Staying safe in the sun ☀️

Have you heard of the 5 S's of Sun Safety? This rule is important to remember, especially if you're having an outdoor study/activity day:

• SLIP: Remember to wear light layers or even a thin scarf over your shoulders and arms to protect your skin. It'll reduce your chances of sunburn, which is important when the UV is high!
• SLOP: ALWAYS apply suncream at least 20 minutes before you go outside. More importantly, keep applying it throughout the day.
• SLAP: Pop on a wide-brimmed hat (like that bucket hat you got for a festival and haven't worn since) to protect your face, ears and neck. You can wear a cap, but it's not really going to protect your neck and ears.
• SEEK: Find shade where you can in the day. That includes trees, bringing an umbrella with you, or even nipping into a shop for 10 minutes if you're out and about. It's important to take breaks from direct UV exposure (11am-3pm are usually peak UV times). This can prevent heat exhaustion and heatstroke, as well as sunburn.
• SLIDE: Slide those shades on like you're an undercover detective who's about to solve a case - you're gonna look so cool. But seriously, make sure you're protecting your eyes with a good pair of sunglasses.

Fun Summer Tip: For those hot days, fill a bottle halfway with water and leave it in the freezer overnight. In the morning, fill the rest with water, and you've got yourself icy water to keep you cool throughout the day 💧

While the sun makes everything x10 better, it's important to look after yourself and make sure you're drinking water and applying plenty of sunscreen before you take your daily coffee walk! ❤️