SUN AWARENESS WEEK
Members of the public are being encouraged to stay safe in the sun as the current warm weather is expected to continue into this week.
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde (NHSGGC) advised people to ensure they are protected from the sun, and to take care when barbecuing to prevent food poisoning.
It also highlighted the importance of getting the right care in the right place if help is needed for a health concern.
Common health conditions during nicer weather can include sunburn, food poisoning, bites and stings.
NHSGGC also highlighted the importance of keeping items like over-the-counter medicines, a first aid kit and an ice pack at home to help manage minor cuts, bruises, sprains and strains.
During Sun Awareness Week, NHSGGC is asking people to consider the following:
- Sunburn and sunstroke – Always cover up in the sun to protect yourself and your family from burns and heat exhaustion. This includes wearing a high-factor sunscreen and appropriate clothing and spending time in the shade.
- Food poisoning – Barbecuing can lead to food poisoning if it is not done correctly. Ensure meat is cooked thoroughly and evenly, and keep cooked and raw food separate.
- Medicines – Make sure you have over-the-counter medicines at home for common illnesses including paracetamol or ibuprofen, remedies for bites and stings and antihistamines for allergies.
- First aid – Keep a first aid kit in your home with plasters, bandages and antiseptic wipes for cuts, and an ice pack for minor strains or sprains.
For those requiring support or medical treatment for non-life-threatening conditions, there is a range of services available to help, and NHSGGC continues to ask people to ‘think ABC’ before attending A&E:
Ask yourself: Do I need to go out? For information on keeping yourself well and treating minor illnesses and injuries from home, visit the NHS Inform website or download the NHS24 app.
Be aware: There is help for many conditions right on your doorstep. Your local GP, pharmacy, dentist or optician offer a range of services. This could include directing you to a Minor Injuries Unit.
Call 111: If it’s urgent, or you’re not sure, call NHS24 on 111. They’ll make sure you get the help you need.
If you think your condition or injury is very urgent or life-threatening, you should call 999 or go to A&E immediately.
For more information on accessing the care you need, please go to: Right Care, Right Place – NHSGGC.
Dr Emilia Crighton, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde’s Director of Public Health, said: “This is a great time to get outside and enjoy warmer weather and longer days with friends and family.
“Please enjoy the good weather safely by covering up when in the sun, staying hydrated and making sure food is properly cooked if barbecued”.
“For those who do require support over this period, we want people to be aware that there are many services available to them other than emergency departments.
“By using NHS 24’s digital resources and through 111, people who need care can be seen by the most appropriate staff in the most appropriate setting.
“We ask everyone to think ABC before A&E. This will ensure you get the right care in the right place, will help reduce waiting times, and free up capacity for those who need it most.”
