Summer Sun Safety and Heat Awareness

Keeping you safe on the water

Summer is here, and whether you are a commercial or recreational mariner; we know that means the UV is super strong, especially on the water. However, while in the sun, it’s important to be aware of the risks associated with too much sun exposure and heat.

The Risks of Too Much Sun Exposure

Spending prolonged time in the sun can lead to:

• Sunburn and long-term skin damage
• Skin cancer (Australia has the highest rate globally, with over 2,000 deaths annually)
• Dehydration
• Heat exhaustion
• Heat stroke

Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable, as children have less melanin and thinner skin, and older adults may have underlying health conditions that increase risks.

Recognising Symptoms

Be alert to signs of sun exposure and heat-related illness:

• Red, warm, or swollen skin
• Blistering
• Headaches, fever, nausea, fatigue
• Dizziness, confusion, rapid heartbeat

If untreated, these conditions can become severe or even life-threatening.

How to Treat Sunburn

Minor sunburn:

• Drink plenty of water
• Avoid further sun exposure
• Use cool compresses or baths
• Apply sunburn ointment

Severe sunburn:

• Take pain relief medication
• Cool the skin carefully
• Do not burst blisters
• Seek medical advice immediately

Understanding Dehydration, Heat Exhaustion & Heat Stroke

Dehydration occurs when the body loses more fluids than it takes in, causing thirst, fatigue, dizziness, and confusion. Keep hydrated and rest in cool places.

Heat exhaustion results from prolonged heat exposure, often with heavy sweating, headaches, nausea, and weakness. Move to a cooler place, hydrate with water or electrolyte drinks, and cool down.

Heat stroke is a medical emergency caused by the body’s failure to regulate temperature. Symptoms include confusion, hot dry skin, seizures, and unconsciousness. Call emergency services immediately and start cooling the person while waiting for help.

 Shorlink’s Recommendation

Our recommendation is to limit your time out in the sun especially between 10am and 2pm when the sun’s rays (UV) are most intense.

Wearing light-weighted long-sleeve shirts, pants and a had to cover exposed skin, and to wear polarised sunglasses to protect your eyes from the sun’s harmful ray’s.

You should have a Sun Smart Policy or similar in your SMS that identifies the best clothing and hats to wear. It should also refer to Australian Standards for sunglasses so as you can ensure you get the best sun protection.

Tip

Use sunscreen before heading outside and reapply every two hours due to swimming, sweating and towel drying, also avoid sun peak hours.

Drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your skin hydrated and to prevent sunburn, be mindful of reflective surfaces such as water can reflect UV rays, increasing your risk of sunburn.