PUBLIC Health England (PHE) are warning people to take care in the sunshine as temperatures rise.

People spending more than 20 minutes outdoors in the sun are advised to apply sunscreen of at least SPF15 with UVA protection, wear UV sunglasses to reduce UV exposure to the eyes, walk in the shade, and wear a hat.

Also, people should wear light, loose-fitting cotton clothes which will minimise the risk of sunburn, drink lots of cool drinks, avoid alcohol, seek shade and look out for others – especially the vulnerable such as older people, young children, babies and those with serious illnesses.

Officials are also reminding people not to leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals.

Dr Mark Evans, deputy director of Health Protection for the Avon, Gloucestershire and Wiltshire PHE Centre, said: “It’s good that the sun is shining and we can all enjoy a taste of summer – but it’s important to remember that rising heat does bring health risks for some.

“For the time being we recommend that people keep an eye on the weather forecast for the coming days, consider avoiding the sun between 11am and 3pm, drink plenty of fluids and keep an eye out for the vulnerable, children and older people.”

For more information on sun safety, visit http://sunsmart.org.uk/UV-the-sun-and-skin-cancer/ how-to-enjoy-the-sun-safely.