DANGERS FROM THE SUN WHILE ABROAD

Over-exposure to the sun can bring not only severe sunburn but also a risk of heatstroke, dehydration and cancer of the skin.

• The farther south towards the Equator the holiday venue, the greater the effect of the sun's rays.
• Adverse effects from the sun are greatest between 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. High reflection on the beach by the waterside also increases the sun's effects.
• Graded exposure for a short time in half-hour intervals is a wise precaution to avoid adverse effects of the sun.
• Avoid failing asleep in the sun, after lunch, for example.
• Adequate protection from the sun's rays can only be obtained by covering up and wearing a hat or by using the highest factors - above 10 - in protective sunscreen lotions and creams. These should be frequently re-applied, especially on children and fair-skinned adults. The sun's ray's can pass through lightly woven material such as thin shirts and blouses.
• Skin cancer is a serious risk, especially to fair-skinned, blue-eyed, red- and fair-haired people who freckle. The effects of the rays build up over continued exposure over the years. The risk can only be decreased by avoiding direct exposure to sunlight from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and by adequate coverage using the highest factor sun protective creams at other times (15+).
• Eyes should be protected with good-quality sunglasses.