Queensland boasts stunning weather, but we also have one of the world’s highest rates of skin cancer. Each year, more than 3,600 Queenslanders receive a diagnosis of melanoma, the most severe form of skin cancer¹.
As we approach the warmer months, CCQ wishes to remind the community to prioritise sun safety.
The Cancer Council, Queensland offers five practical recommendations to promote sun safety:
1. SLIP: Slip into protective clothing.
2. SLOP: Slop on some SPF30 protection sunscreen.
3. SLAP: Slap on a hat. Choose a broad-brimmed, legionnaire, or bucket-style hat to shield your face, nose, neck, and ears.
4. SEEK: Seek shade. Shade alone can reduce your UV exposure by up to 75%. Utilise trees and built structures or bring your own shade, such as a pop-up tent or umbrellas.
5. SLIDE: Slide on some sunglasses, ensuring they’re a close-fitting, wrap-around style that meets Australian Standard AS 1067 and provides an Eye Protection Factor (EPF) of 9 or above.²
You can also download the SunSmart app for convenient reminders and tips.
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Dehydration – What Is It? How Can I Prevent It?
Dehydration occurs when the body loses too much water and cannot replace it swiftly. The body can rapidly lose water in hot weather through perspiration, and even simple activities – like breathing – can result in water loss.
Dehydration doesn’t discriminate based on age or health; it can affect anyone, regardless of fitness level. Severe consequences of dehydration include heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which can have potentially fatal outcomes.
Especially during physical activity, it’s imperative to stay hydrated under the scorching Queensland sun and crucial to be well-prepared by carrying water whenever leaving home.
Here are some measures to help you stay hydrated during the approaching warmer weather conditions:
1. Recognise the Signs: Identifying the signs of dehydration is crucial. Symptoms may include thirst, dry mouth, headaches, light-headedness or dizziness, and darker, reduced urine output.
2. Stay Hydrated While Exercising: Ensure you remain well-hydrated during physical exercise, especially when outdoors. Even for short activities like walking, running, cycling, or kayaking during warmer months, carrying at least 1 litre of water per person is recommended.
3. Carry Extra Water with You When Outdoors: For longer outdoor excursions, such as day-long hikes or water-based activities, it’s advised to have at least 3-4 litres of water on hand.³
Stay sun smart and hydrated and have a safe and enjoyable summer in beautiful Queensland.
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1. QLD Government, Skin Cancer Explained, Accessed 21 September 2023.
2. Cancer Council QLD, Accessed 21 September 2023.
3. QLD Government, Everything you need to know about dehydration, Accessed 21 September 2023.