Being SunSmart

How to be SunSmart - slip, slop, slap and wrap

  • SLIP into a shirt - and slip into some shade, especially between 11am and 4pm when the ultraviolet rays are most fierce.
  • SLOP on some sunscreen before going outdoors.
  • Put sunscreen on any skin not covered by clothes.
  • Choose a sunscreen that meets the Australian and New Zealand Standard AS/NZS2604.
  • Use an SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen. Wipe it on thickly at least 15 minutes before going outdoors. 
  • Reapply; do this 15 minutes after the first application to ensure complete coverage, and also after physical activity, swimming or towel drying.
  • SLAP on a hat with a brim or a cap with flaps. More people get burned on the face and neck than any other part of the body, so a good hat is important.
  • WRAP on a pair of sunglasses. Choose close fitting, wrap-around glasses that meet the Australian Standard AS1067. 

Sun Protection at outdoor events

While it is best to avoid sun exposure during the peak UV times of 10-4pm some summer activities, such as sport, require children to be outside during these times. Where children and spectators are required to be outside for events such as athletics, tennis, cricket, cycling, swimming or any other outside activity it is very important to protect them from the sun in the following ways: 

  • Use available shade as much as possible e.g. while having a break from the activity. If shade is not available bring your own portable shade, such as a sun umbrella.
  • Encourage event organisers to provide shade such as portable sun shelters sun, umbrellas, tents etc. for use by participants and spectators between events.
  • Provide children with a wide brimmed or bucket style (min. 6cm brim) hat, or if the activity prevents hat wearing apply SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen to the face, ears and neck. 
  • Provide children with clothing that is comfortable and that provides sun protection e.g. elbow length sleeves and collars and longer length shorts or long trousers.
  • Apply SPF30+ broad-spectrum sunscreen to all areas of the body that are not protected by clothing.
  • When children are swimming outdoors, use SPF30+ broad-spectrum, water resistant sunscreen and protect them with a rash suit, a rash shirt or a wet suit.
  • When children are out of the water, encourage them to seek shade, where appropriate.
  • Encourage staff, parents, caregivers and other adults to practise SunSmart behaviours in order to protect themselves and to act as role models by reinforcing the SunSmart behaviours. 

Read the pdf downloadparent information sheet.