Staying healthy this summer

Summer may feel like a late start, but holiday season has come with or without the sun. Here are a few tips to remember so you can get the most out of this time of year.

Be smart in the sun

Slip, slop, slap, seek and slide - protective clothing, sunscreen 50+, hats, seek shade and wear sunglasses to avoid the perils of sunburn.

Find out how to be sun smart on the Cancer Council website

Remember to stay hydrated and be mindful of heat

• Take a full water bottle with you when you leave the house, and drink water along with any alcoholic drinks.
• Hot cars can be up to 30 degrees hotter than outside in minutes, don’t leave kids or pets in cars unattended.

Find out more about extreme heat on Better Health Channel

Don't let food poisoning ruin your fun

If you're hosting, make sure food doesn't stay out too long and below 5 degrees. If it's been out longer than 4 hours – throw it out, don't save it for later.

Find out more about food safety outdoors at Better Health Channel

Watch out for the mosquitoes

Mosquito bites can be more than just annoying - they can carry serious disease. Using mosquito repellent is the best way to avoid bites. Apply on top of sunscreen, reapply after swimming, and don't forget the kids.

Find out more about protecting yourself from mosquito-borne disease at Better Health Channel

Keep the germs out of the pool

Shower before swimming, wash your hands, change nappies in the right place, and stay out of the pool if you're sick.

Find out more about healthy swimming at Better Health Channel

Check in on others

The holidays can be joyful, but they can also be tough. Having friends, family, or even small connections can be powerful for your health and wellbeing, or for those you know.

Find out about Mental Health and Wellbeing Locals on Better Health Channel

Be safe around water

If you're planning to visit a beach, inland waterway or pool this summer, prepare to stay safe around the water.

Find out more about summer water safety at Lifesaving Victoria

Be safe around others

• Stay home when you're sick and test with a RAT, stay up to date with your vaccinations, and making sure there's good ventilation.
• Keep your holiday parties and fun times respectful with connection AND protection with the four C's – Communication. Consent, condoms and contraception. Find out more about sexual health at Better Health Channel
• Have your pills tested so you can make informed choices and understand the risk of what is really in your recreational drugs before you use them. Find testing locations at the Victorian Pill Testing Service page at Better Health Channel