Britain has been sweltering under a record breaking heatwave. Temperatures across the nation have soared, and Britons everywhere have embraced the novelty. However, this has led to an increase in cases of sunstroke, as well as other nasty related things due to a lack of sun protection.

In this post, TSW have scoured the web and found some ingenious, simple and cost effective ways all of us can keep the summer heat from doing any serious damage.

Use Sun Tan Lotion

Although one would think this a no-brainer, many of us forget to wear sun tan lotion or sunscreen when we step out into the scorching heat. Truly, sun tan lotion is a lifesaver, especially if you get a lotion that has been created with a high UV factor (a sun protection factor (SPF) of just 15 blocks 93% of UV rays). Children and the elderly are particularly vulnerable to the effects of the sun, especially with regards to heatstroke and burning. When dealing with these two groups, investing in a lotion that has high UV protection is best.

Always Carry a Bottle of Water

A bottle of water is essential to have with you at all times during those hot languid summer months. Today, you don’t need to pay out excessive prices for bottles of Evian. There’s a number of water bottles available, both on the high street and online, that specialise in including a water filter within the bottle. These can either use traditional charcoal blocks, or something a bit more technically advanced. This way you’ll never have to go without filtered water.

Wear a Hat

Your head is the most exposed part of your body, and during days where the sun is at its strongest and most intense, a hat is an essential accessory. Once again, the most vulnerable – children and the elderly – are highly susceptible to the effects of the sun, such as dizziness and feeling faint. This can often happen due to the lack of head protection, so always have a hat with you.

Keep a Pair of Sunglasses with You

Bright sunshine can cause watery eyes, dizziness or, in the worst cases, make you feel disorientated. Always keep a pair of sunglasses with you. They don’t need to be an expensive designer pair, but something that protect your eyes from the dazzling light.

Avoid a Prolonged Amount of Time in the Sun

It is highly recommended by doctors that you limit your time outside during heat waves. Prolonged exposure can cause a range of illnesses, so by limiting your time you’re saving your body a heap of trouble. As Gwynn Cassidy writes in Healthy Women, “Seek shade when possible, especially during the hours of 10:00 am to 4:00 pm when the sun’s rays are strongest.”