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Safe in the Sun |
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• General Safety
• Police and Fire: 10111
It is important to know local emergency numbers for your own area as well. Memorise these and make sure your children know what to do and whom to call in an emergency as well.
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Resources
| Adult Education
The burning issue this summer is how to protect your children's skin from damaging rays. Particular care should be taken to protect children's skin outdoors.
The sun is not the kind friend our parents thought it was. Today, it's not just sunburn we need to worry about but also the increased risk of skin cancer tomorrow. A young child's skin will receive enough sunlight to cause burning after only a few minutes exposure
Although we have to take extra precautions when we are in the hot summer days in South Africa, we must remember even a mild sunny day can cause damage as a baby's skin is very delicate and can burn easily. Avoid having your child in the sun in the middle of the day
Out of Harm The first line of defence for young babies is to keep them out of the sun altogether. Always keep your baby in the shade Use shade such as hats, umbrellas, covered prams and trees Always protect their sensitive skins with sunscreens formulated specially for babies.
A Head Start Wearing a sun hat is vital especially for children playing in the sun. Hats need to be wide rimmed to keep the sun of the face as well as the back of the neck- a vital area, which is often forgotten. Once children are active you need a hat that will stay put and is comfortable to wear Remember to pack a hat when your child goes to crèche, school or play-school.
Sun Screens Choose a sunscreen with high sun protection factor (15 plus) and check that it offers both UVA and UVB protection. Ensure that areas such as lips and nose are properly covered as well as the back of the neck, legs and feet. Use zinc cream for total block-out on your child's nose or other small areas. Apply sunscreen on your child before going out in the sun and re-apply regularly (Preferably 20 minutes before going outdoors to allow for proper absorption Use water-resistant sunscreens when your child is going to be swimming.
Sun Safe Tips Keep children out of the sun between the hours of 11 am and 3pm when the sun is at it's strongest. Make maximum use of the shade. Wearing a T-shirt when on the beach or at the pool is a good idea. Always wear a hat. Cover exposed parts with sunscreen Protect eyes with sunglasses. References. Baby Magazine (Britain)
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