Sun safety and protection tips from Tallaght University Hospital
By Mark Keane
With temperatures already reaching 25 degrees celsius today, Tallaght University Hospital has recommended a number of tips to help people stay safe in the sun.
According to Met Eireann, the temperature will remain at 24 degrees celsius until 7pm this evening, before dropping to 20 degrees celsius at around 10pm tonight.
To help deal with the sun, Tallaght University Hospital warns that people with heart and respiratory problems are more at risk to the effects of the sunny weather, additonally babies and young children are particularly vulnerable.
For those heading out in the sun, the hospital recommends walking in the shade, applying sunscreen which has UVA protection of at least 30 and to wear light, loose-fitting clothes as well as a hat.
As mentioned, children are particularly sensitive to the sun, as a result they should wear sunglasses and not be left alone in stationary cars.
Drinking plenty of water will help deal with the effects of the sun, but the hospital has warned people to avoid excessive consumption of alcohol, caffeine and hot drinks.
Elderly or sick neighbours
Tallaght University Hospital has urged people to “check on elderly or sick neighbours, family or friends every day during a heat wave”.
People should also “avoid extreme physical exertion” and if possible keep any physical tasks, such as gardening, for the early morning or evening.
Met Eireann has forecast that the weather will remain hot throughout the week and that it will hit 25 degrees celsius again on Wednesday.
