When taking the family for a fun day on the beach, it is important to use sun protection for toddlers.

This message was recently underlined by Weymouth Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI), which held a safety event for Beechcroft St Paul's School pupils in the Dorset town.

Launching its family wellbeing initiative, the charity held meet and greets with lifeguards, who were able to offer important tips on avoiding sunburn and staying safe in the sea.

The programme, which will educate around 15,000 youngsters at 25 events this summer, is being carried out in conjunction with tyre manufacturer Good Year.

A representative from the firm told the Dorset Echo: "A lot of [children] don't know what the different flags mean. We also aim to teach people about general beach safety, like sun protection, keeping hydrated and beach etiquette."

According to the NHS, the best sun protection for toddlers is a high factor suncream.

Buggy sunshades and hats will also come in useful, while babies should be kept in the shade between 11:00 and 15:00 GMT.

Posted by Eileen KirkADNFCR-3005-ID-19806664-ADNFCR