Here comes the sun!

TEMPERATURES are forecast to reach 29 degrees across Co Galway next week and the public are being urged to protect their skin and help reduce their risk of sun damage and skin cancer.

This weekend will see the start of what's set to be a week-long spell of hot and sunny weather for the West. Temperatures of between 21 and 23 degrees are predicted over Saturday and Sunday. These will rise even further from Monday onwards with next Wednesday and Thursday expected to be reach 29 degrees. Temperatures are likely to match those in some of the usual holiday hot spots in the Med. The Irish summer sunshine may last into the following weekend also.

With primary school children breaking up for summer holidays next week and the state exams now at an end, there will be plenty of opportunities for people to enjoy the good weather and large crowds are expected at Galway's beaches next week.

The Irish Cancer Society is urging the public to take measures to protect their skin and follow the SunSmart code.
Kevin O’Hagan, Cancer Prevention Manager with the Irish Cancer Society said, “With the onset of increasing temperatures, it is vital that people take pre-cautions to reduce their risk of sun damage.
“It is especially important to protect babies and children as much of the UV damage that leads to skin cancer takes place in the early years of life. Research has shown that getting sunburnt in childhood or adolescence can increase the risk of melanoma--the most serious form of skin cancer. Tanned skin is damaged skin. The tan a child gets may fade but the damage remains.
“By protecting children and young people’s skin when they are outdoors you can reduce their risk of developing skin cancer in years to come. But, using sunscreen alone is not enough so make sure to follow the full SunSmart code to ensure maximum protection.”
The SunSmart Code
•    SEEK SHADE: when UV rays are at their strongest – generally between 11am and 3pm.
•    COVER UP: by wearing a shirt with a collar and long shorts.  Also wear a hat that gives shade to your face, neck and ears.
•    WEAR WRAPAROUND SUNGLASSES: make sure they give UV protection.
•    SLOP ON SUNSCREEN: Use sunscreen SPF minimum 30 or higher and UVA protection 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every two hours – more often if swimming or perspiring.
•    CHECK the UV index – www.cancer.ie/uvindex
•    Keep babies under six months out of the sun.
For more information on skin cancer or how to be SunSmart, visit www.cancer.ie/Sunsmart or contact the Cancer Nurseline on Freephone 1800 200 700.