Staying safe in the sun as a carer

Although it’s great to share the warm summer months with those we support, it’s vital to be mindful about how we spend our time in the hot weather.

In order to stay safe in the heat it’s vital to stay hydrated. There’s not a hard and fast rule about the amount of water you should drink, so taking a sip whenever you feel thirsty is fine. However not everybody can rely on those sensations, so be wary of fatigue, poor concentration, dark urine or mood swings, as they can point to dehydration too.

Excessive sun exposure is a serious concern for support workers as care work often involves going outdoors with those you care for. This is why it’s important to plan regular breaks in the day, especially after activities. Always try to seek shade or air-conditioned locations whenever possible too.

To stay as cool as possible in the sun, try to avoid any strenuous physical activity. On top of that, wear loose fitting, lightly coloured clothing, like loose shirts and shorts where possible. If that’s not possible, you’ll want to avoid black, tightly fitting clothes on hot days. Sun hats will also help!

To keep you and those you care for safe in the sun choose the right level of sun protection to prevent your skin burning. To decide what SPF to choose, know that an SPF 15 lotion would protect you for 15 times longer in the sun than if you had no sunscreen on; an SPF 30 would protect you for 30 times longer and so on.

Lastly, planning ahead in the summer months is key. You don’t want to be caught off guard and underprepared for the weather. Plan the day’s activities in advance with the person you support, keep an eye on weather updates, and plan accordingly!

Are you looking for Health and Social Care roles this summer? Browse our varied selection of roles today and join the ENS team.

Why it’s important to take care in the heat

It’s important to take care in the heat because sun over exposure can cause mood swings, fatigue, and even nausea, among other things. Certain groups will be more vulnerable to the hot weather than others, so it’s very important to pay special attention to:

• Older individuals over the age of 75
• People with a serious chronic condition, such as heart and breathing conditions
• People with mobility issues, such as those who have had a stroke or those with Parkinson’s
• Individuals on certain medicine such as temperature and sweat controlling drugs

If you or the person you’re supporting begins to feel unwell, it’s important to call NHS 111 for advice and help immediately.

Are you looking for Health and Social Care roles this summer? Browse our varied selection of roles today and join the ENS team.

Stay safe and enjoy the warm weather responsibly this summer!