Below is the sun safety code that offers some practical advice on staying safe in the sun.

Sunburn hurts - you may find yourself missing all the fun because of painful sunburn. Don't be fooled by a light breeze or cloud. You can still get burnt on a cloudy day.

Make sure your sunglasses have the BSEM 1836-1997 label and the CE mark. Take special care of your ears and neck - they are the most common places for skin cancers. A hat with a wider brim will give you better protection. People with fair skin, red hair or lots of freckles or moles are most at risk. People with brown or black skin are at much lower risk and generally do not need protection in the UK

Stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day - between 11am and 3pm

Use a high factor sunscreen no less than SPF15 and a 3 or 4 star rating. Apply sunscreen thickly over all exposed areas of skin. Use an hour before going outside and re-apply it frequently and generously, especially if you are swimming or doing other water sports. Sunscreens should only be used in combination with other methods of sun protection.

Getting sunburnt as a child increases your risk of skin cancer later. Babies under a year old should be kept out of the sun. Toddlers and young children should wear loose fitting clothing, wide brimmed hats and sunglasses. Encourage young children to play in the shade during the hottest part of the day.