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Sunburn
If you are experiencing a life threatening emergency please contact Triple Zero (000) immediately
Introduction
Sunburn is damage to the skin caused by excessive exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun. In Australia, where UV levels can be very high, sunburn is common and often underestimated. Repeated sunburn increases the risk of long-term skin damage and skin cancer. Understanding sunburn as more than just temporary discomfort reinforces the need for protective behaviours in the sun.
Signs and Symptoms
Red, hot, painful skin
Swelling, blistering
Headache, nausea in severe cases
Fever or chills with extensive sunburn
What you should do?
Follow DRSABCD
Move out of sun immediately
Cool skin with cold compress or aloe gel
Drink fluids to prevent dehydration
Do not break blisters
Seek medical help if severe, blistered, or covering large areas
These fact sheets are provided by Royal Life Saving to support public, workplace, school, and community education. They must be used in their full and current format and are not permitted for commercial purposes unless written approval is obtained. The information is not a substitute for accredited First Aid training, and users are encouraged to complete recognised courses and refresh their skills regularly. While care has been taken to ensure accuracy, Royal Life Saving does not accept responsibility for how the material is applied, and users should always check they are referring to the latest version. Use of this content does not imply endorsement or partnership, and Royal Life Saving may request that use of its materials cease if considered inappropriate or unauthorised.
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