Surf lifesaving stays SUN SMART

Slip, slop, slap, wrap is the saying Anglesea Nippers learn from day one of their surf education program.

Sun safety is just as important as surf safety, according to Anglesea Surf Lifesaving Club director of youth development Naomi Symington.

“We have just over 500 Nippers at our club and we ensure that they know the importance of sun safety,” Naomi said.

“We supply our Nippers with a broad brimmed hat, rash vest and T-shirt for when on the beach and follow the ‘no hat, no play’ rule during our education sessions too.

“We give all our Nippers a list of what to pack in their beach bag, which includes sunscreen and sunglasses; the wrap in slip, slop, slap, wrap. We also provide free sunscreen on a daily basis at the club.”

As part of the Anglesea Nippers surf education program, participants are given age appropriate lessons on staying safe in the sun.

“The younger kids are given colouringin activities, while our older members are given more in depth conversations about the consequences of not being sunsmart,” Naomi said.

“Five years ago we changed our start time from 10am to 9.30am to reduce the amount of harsh UV the Nippers were exposed to.

“We’re hoping to eventually provide long-sleeved shirts for our Nippers so we can continue to improve our sun safety policies.”

For more on the Sun Smart policy, head to angleseaslsc.org.au/stay-sunsmart.

Tips for improving sun safety when on the beach:

• Ensure there is access to shade
• Always bring sunscreen and a broad brimmed hat
• Stay hydrated with water
• Arrive earlier in the day to avoid the high levels of UV later in the day
• Wear sunglasses where possible