As a prehospital professional (paramedics, emergency care assistants (ECAs), and other first responders) you play a crucial role in providing immediate care to those in need. However, your demanding job often requires spending extended periods outdoors, exposing yourself to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.

With the hot weather in full force and health alerts for most of the UK, this blog post will highlight the importance of sun cream for prehospital personnel and discuss the key reasons why it should be an integral part of your daily routine.

importance of sun cream for prehospital personnel

Occupational Sun Exposure

Frequent work in outdoor environments, responding to emergencies, conducting rescue operations etc. can lead to increased sun exposure – especially in the summer months. These situations can expose you to high levels of UV radiation, increasing your risk of sunburn, skin damage, and long-term health issues.

Protecting Your Personal Well-Being 

Sun cream is a vital tool for safeguarding yourself from the sun. It acts as a protective barrier against harmful UV rays, reducing the risk of sunburn, premature aging, and skin cancer. By incorporating sun cream into your daily routine, you can minimise the adverse effects of sun exposure and prioritise your own health and safety.

Choosing the Right Sun Cream

When selecting sun cream for yourself, consider the following factors:

Sun Protection Factor (SPF): Opt for a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a minimum SPF of 30. Higher SPF provides greater protection against UV rays, which are primarily responsible for sunburn.

Water Resistance: Since you often face situations involving water, sweat, or bodily fluids, choose a water-resistant sunscreen that can withstand such conditions and maintain its efficacy.

Non-Greasy Formulation: Look for sun creams that are lightweight and non-greasy, allowing for comfortable application and minimizing interference with protective gloves or other personal protective equipment (PPE).

Sun cream is an essential tool to safeguard your health while performing your work. By prioritising sun protection through regular sun cream application, reapplication, and integrating sun safety practices into your daily routines, you can minimize the risks associated with sun exposure. Promoting awareness, education, and accessibility of sun cream further reinforces the importance of sun safety within the prehospital care community. Remember, protecting those who protect others is not just a priority; it’s a responsibility.