Spring and the Easter holidays are a busy time across Cornwall. Many people spend more time outdoors, enjoy local attractions or visit friends and family. A few simple health steps can help you stay well and reduce the risk of illness or injury during the holidays.
Enjoy the outdoors safely
Spending time outside is good for health and wellbeing, but it’s important to take care.
- Dress for changeable spring weather and wear suitable footwear
- Take care on uneven ground, coastal paths and countryside walks
- Supervise children closely near cliffs, rivers and open water
- Be aware of ticks when walking in long grass or woodland and check skin after being outdoors. Visit the UKHSA website for advice on ticks and how to remove them.
Visiting farms and animal attractions
Easter is a popular time for farm parks and animal attractions. Good hand hygiene helps prevent illness.
- Wash hands thoroughly with soap and water after touching animals
- Make sure children clean their hands properly
- Avoid eating or drinking while walking around animal areas
- Clean hands before eating snacks or meals
Read more about staying safe on farm visits with advice from the UK Health Security Agency.
Food safety and barbecues
If you are eating outdoors or having a barbecue, simple food hygiene steps can reduce the risk of food poisoning.
- Wash hands before and after handling food, especially raw meat
- Keep raw and cooked foods separate
- Defrost frozen meat fully in the fridge before cooking
- Cook food thoroughly until it is piping hot all the way through
- Never wash raw chicken or meat
- Dispose of barbecues safely and allow them to cool completely before disposal. For more advice check out our Fire Service safety tips.
Visit the Food Standards Agency website for barbecue food safety advice.
Protect your skin in spring sunshine
Even in spring, the sun can still damage skin.
- Use sunscreen with at least SPF 30
- Reapply sunscreen regularly when outdoors
- Wear a hat and sunglasses where possible
- Take extra care to protect children’s skin
Find out more about sunscreen and sun safety on the NHS website.
Water safety
Water temperatures remain cold in spring and can be dangerous.
- Take care near rivers, harbours and the coastline
- Check tide times before heading to the beach
- Cold water shock can happen even on mild days
Visit the RNLI website for advice on staying safe around water.
Beach goers want to enjoy water activities without risking their health. Take a look at our bathing water quality page to find out more.
Medication and staying well
- Bring enough regular medication if you are staying away from home
- Order repeat prescriptions in good time, especially around bank holidays
- Keep a small first-aid kit for minor illnesses and injuries
You can manage prescriptions quickly and easily using the NHS App.
Know where to get health help
Choosing the right service helps you get care quickly and supports the NHS.
- GP surgeries are the best option for non-urgent health concerns, even if you are away from home
- Pharmacies can give advice and treatment for many minor illnesses
- NHS 111 is available 24/7 for urgent advice when it’s not an emergency. Visit 111.nhs.uk or call 111
- Minor Injury Units can treat injuries that aren’t life-threatening
- Call 999 or attend A&E only for serious or life-threatening emergencies