One of the dangers often overlooked when going hiking, is forgetting the strong sun when travelling in open areas.
To avoid sunburn - use sunscreen with a sun protection factor of 15 or more on all exposed skin.
Apply it before you go into the sun and then several times during the day.
Protect your lips from the sun with lip balm containing sunscreen.
Note that the sun is strongest during the middle 4 hours of the day, so that’s when protection is most needed. The sun is also stronger when higher up the altitude.
A wide-brimmed hat or peaked cap with neck flap will protect the neck and shoulders.
Tightly woven long-sleeved shirts and long pants will keep put the sun, but loosely woven garments won’t. An umbrella gives the head and upper body great protection.
For more on dressing for protection from heat and sun:
- sunglasses
- bandanna around the neck
- SPF on exposed skin
- loose-fitting hiking pants, rolled up to keep cool
- loose light colored shirts
- wide-brimmed hat
When hiking on snow or pale rock or sand you can be burnt by sunlight reflected upwards.
Make sure you put sunscreen under your nose, ears and chin.
If you get sunburned, cold, wet dressings, sunscreen, and moisturizing lotions can ease the pain. Keep the burnt area covered.
If it’s really sore, you may need to put a dressing on it so it doesn’t rub against clothing. If blisters appear, treat the sunburn as you would any other burn.
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Camping First Aid and Safety articles are available at CampTrainer.com.
