Florida - The Sunshine State
Sun care for your Florida vacation

Florida is the Sunshine State, and even though you are looking for sun, sea and sand, you can have too much of a good thing. Something as simple as sunburn can completely ruin your dream holiday, causing anything from mild sunstroke to severe blistering. Please ensure that you take plenty of sunscreen with you on vacation, a healthy tan is much nicer than the lobster look...

Use a high factor sun cream and ensure that children wear sun hats at all times, during the day. If it takes 20 mins before you start to burn in the sun a factor 15 sunblock will protect you for approx 300 mins.

Sand and water reflect UV radiation, which means being in the shade under a beach umbrella does not provide complete protection.

Wear lightweight, light coloured clothing. Dark colours attract the heat.

Never leave children or pets in the car, the heat can kill in these conditions.

Don't use moisterising creams and oils before going out, you will not tan, you will burn.

Don't be fooled into thinking you can't get burned on a cloudy day. The sun can quite easily penetrate the clouds.

Drink plenty of fluid, water is best. Avoid drinking alcohol.

The sun is at its hottest between 10am and 3pm. If possible take this time to have a nap or if you are out have a bite to eat at a restaurant or picnic in a sheltered area.

If visiting the water parks ensure that you are using a waterproof sunscreen. Re-apply the lotion on a regular basis.

If you do get sunburned
Symptoms

Redness, pain, swelling, blisters, chills, cracked skin, headaches and fever.

Treatment

Bathe in cool water, ask for an appropriate cream from the pharmacy and stay out of the sun. If your skin has blistered and cracked apply dry sterile dressings and see a doctor.