Summer is a great time to be active outdoors especially at the beach. It is very important when you are having fun in the sun to Slip! Slop! Slap! There are many ways to be sun smart and protect your skin. Try not to rely on only sunscreen or a hat to protect you all day from the sun, several measures can be taken for sun protection.

The danger period for ultraviolet (UV) radiation is during September to April 11 am to 3 pm

To be sun smart:

* spend less time outdoors when UV radiation is high
* use shade
* wear protective clothing and hats
* wear sunglasses
* use sunscreen.

Most people get burnt while doing something they didn't think would put them at risk, like walking the dog or being at work. A large number of people though get sun burnt while sun baking or swimming at the beach or pool. Many of us can loose track of time when at thebeach and regular reapplication of sunscreen is important.

Sunburn alone isn't the only risk factor for skin damage. Getting a tan will damage your skin just as much, and also increase your risk of getting cancer. A tan is a sign that your skin is trying to protect itself from the sun. More information about being sun smart can be found at http://www.sunsmart.com.au/

What A Ripper!

Rip currents can be one of the most dangerous things for a swimmer at the beach and many of these swimmer difficulties lead to surf rescues. A rip is water moving out to sea and occurs when the water tries to level out. This is usually as a result of large sets approaching the beach and a build up of water closer to shore which will later return to sea where the water levels out again, and the drag that is caused by this water imbalance.

Common signs of a rip are:

* Discoloured brown water, due to sand which has been stirred up
* Foam on the surface extending beyond the break
* Waves breaking further out on both sides of the rip
* Debris floating seaward
* A rippled appearance, where the surrounding water is generally calm.

If you are caught in a rip, don’t panic, if you are inexperienced just ride the rip out to sea, and then swim parallel to the shore for 30 to 40 meters. Return to shore where the waves are breaking, parallel to the rip. Stronger swimmers should swim at a 45 degree angle across the rip and in the same direction as the side current. If help is needed to get back to shore, wave one arm in the air to signal help is required and stay calm.

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