Park recreation

Sun protection guidelines for all those who enjoy outdoor recreation. The following specific tips and advice have been developed with the help of Fields in Trust.

Parks and green spaces host a variety of outdoor sports and recreation, from football to ultimate frisbee, lawn bowls to picnics. There are an endless number of activities enjoyed in these spaces, making it important to be sun protected.

Park recreation

  1. Apply a broad-spectrum product with an SPF 30 or higher, paying special attention to your ears, nose, and shoulders, as well as other areas which are prone to burning.
  2. Once applied to the skin, reapply sunscreen every 2 hours, or more often if you are prone to excessive sweating, and especially after being in or around water.
  3. The sun is strongest between 11am and 3pm so look to enjoy the park’s green space and facilities outside of these hours, particularly on clear, sunny days.
  4. If enjoying a picnic at the park, choosing a shaded area will keep your drinks cool and your skin protected. Be mindful though that the shade moves with the sun. Investing in a pop-up shade may be your best bet, especially for parks with wide open greens.
  5. Whilst being social it is easy to forget about your skin, so encourage everyone to sun protect, and look out for signs of sunburn on others.
  6. Make sure babies are kept out of direct sunlight and protected with appropriate clothing and shade.
  7. Wear a hat. Your forehead, scalp and ears are vulnerable areas, especially if you are bald or have thinning hair, so styles with a wide brim are ideal.
  8. Take plenty of water with you to keep regularly hydrated, especially if consuming alcohol!
  9. Wear clothing that protects arms, shoulders, and legs. Rash tops are ideal for children (and adults) who love being in and out of water all day.
  10. If you’re at the park to enjoy the scenery as well as a touch of sport, sunglasses will help protect your eyes from harsh UV rays.
  11. Ensure that you carry sunscreen at all times during the summer months, so that you are always prepared for a spontaneous trip to the park.

Supported by: