Costa del Sol skin cancer survivor expat shares summer heat advice

Steve Marshall, a Brit living in Spain, is well-versed in the ravaging sun of southern Spain. Recently, Steve Marshall underwent a major surgery to treat skin cancer that was caused by excessive sun exposure at the Costa del Sol. He shares his expert advice from years of experience on how to manage heat and sun exposure for local expats preparing for summer temperatures.

His advice includes hydration, protection from the sun and support for your neighbors.

Hydration is important for daily life

Marshall’s advice for hydration. “First, it’s important to consume lots of water every day, even when you don’t feel like it. Avoid alcohol and beer as they will dehydrate and reduce water intake. Many northern Europeans and tourists to the Costas commit this mistake.

Protect skin with appropriate clothing and timing

He then gave sun protection advice. “If you need to go outside, make sure that you wear a wide-brimmed cap and regularly apply sunscreen at least factor 50. It includes when you get out of the water or into your pool. Steve discovered this lesson the hard-way. The sun rays in southern Spain can do some serious damage.

Heat and electricity savings for the home

Home cooling advice soon followedSteve knows this all too well. Close blinds and drapes to cool rooms and minimize the need for fans. The cost of electricity is skyrocketing. It’s common in places like the UK to open the windows when it is hot. This can have a negative effect in Spain.

Secure your doors and windows against intruders

Marshall told his personal story. We thought we were safe, but we were burglarized in the night after forcing open our terrace sliding door. He suggested a simple alarm and device. “TOP TIp I learned the hard-way was to place a sawn broom in the runner, making it impossible to open. We also installed an alarm.”

Keep an eye out for your neighbours