During Your Vacation

Although you are on vacation to have fun, you should also remain aware of certain risks. This is the best way to ensure a happy, healthy trip.

Sun

• Always carry clothes and items that will protect you against the sun's rays, such as a long sleeved shirt, wide brimmed sun hat and sunglasses.
• Drink plenty of non-alcoholic fluids.
• Apply high factor protection creams at least half an hour before exposure to the sun.
• Re-apply sunscreen every 2 hours; more often if you're playing sport, it's windy, you've been swimming or you're at high altitude.
• Avoid sunbathing between 11am and 3pm.
• Build up your exposure to the sun gradually. The lighter your complexion, the more slowly you should increase your exposure time.
• Continue using sunscreen, even when you are tanned.

Food and Drink

• Avoid raw and rare meat or seafood, and re-heated or lukewarm food. If in any doubt; don't eat it.
• Use bottled water for drinking and cleaning your teeth, and avoid drinks with ice in.

Swimming

• Never leave your possessions unattended.
• Alcohol and swimming NEVER mix.
• Never swim straight after a meal; give yourself an hour's rest before heading into the water.
• Always check swimming pool depths before diving in.
• Always try to swim with others, especially in the sea.
• Never fall asleep on an airbed in the sea.
• Watch out for strong tides, currents and winds.

Wildlife

• Use a good repellent to help avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
• Keep arms and legs covered at night, but beware; dark colors attract mosquitoes.
• Avoid touching or stroking stray dogs and cats.
• If you do pet an animal, wash your hands as soon as possible afterwards.
• If you are bitten by an animal, seek medical advice as soon as possible.