HSE Urges Public to Be SunSmart as Met Éireann Forecasts Sunny Bank Holiday Weekend
Met Éireann forecasts sunny weather for the May Bank Holiday. HSE reminds public to follow the SunSmart 5 S's to protect against UV damage, even on cloudy days.
As Met Éireann forecasts sunny weather for the upcoming May Bank Holiday weekend, the HSE National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) is reminding the public to protect themselves from harmful UV radiation. Health officials are encouraging everyone to make being "SunSmart" part of their daily routine, particularly during the spring and summer months.
UV radiation is strongest between 11am and 3pm from April to September. When the UV index reaches 3 or above, skin and eye protection becomes necessary, according to Liz Coleman, Deputy Head of Forecasting at Met Éireann.
"The higher the UV index, the higher the risk of skin and eye damage," Coleman explains. "Don't assume that just because there is cloud that the sun's rays are not damaging. Be prepared by checking the UV forecast on Met Éireann's website."
Dr Breeda Neville, Specialist in Public Health Medicine at HSE NCCP, emphasised the importance of sun safety even in Ireland. "From April to September, the sun's UV rays are strong enough to damage your skin and increase your risk of skin cancer, even on cloudy days," she warned.
Health officials are promoting the "SunSmart 5 S's" to help people protect themselves:
- Slip on clothing that covers skin as much as possible
- Slop on broad-spectrum sunscreen (SPF 30+ for adults, 50+ for children)
- Slap on a wide-brimmed hat
- Seek shade especially between 11am and 3pm
- Slide on sunglasses
The HSE also provides specific guidance on sunscreen application, noting that it should be applied generously 20 minutes before going outside and reapplied every two hours, or more frequently after swimming or sweating.
Officials advise against deliberate tanning, getting sunburnt, or using sunbeds. For babies under six months old, protection through shade and clothing is recommended rather than sunscreen.
The public can find more information about sun safety on the SunSmart hub at www.hse.ie/sunsmart and check the UV index for their area on the Met Éireann website or app.
