As we continue to bask in the glorious sunshine this week the Irish Cancer Society (ICS) is reminding people to be sun smart and to protect themselves against the risk of skin cancer.

The society says people should cover up by wearing a shirt with a collar and long shorts, seek shade between 11am and 3pm and wear plenty of sunscreen.

Skin cancer is the most common cancer in Ireland. The ICS is advising the public to cover up with a wide-brimmed hat, wear good sunglasses and clothing that gives plenty of cover. They say it is important to use a good SPF of at least 15 and to use enough of it.

The ICS says 9 out of every 10 cases could be prevented if we all took more care when outdoors.

It is reminding us to:

• COVER UP: by wearing a shirt with a collar and long shorts. Also wear a hat that gives shade to your face, neck and ears
• SEEK SHADE: when UV rays are at their strongest – between 11am and 3pm
• WEAR WRAPAROUND SUNGLASSES: make sure they give UV protection
• SLOP ON SUNSCREEN: Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher and UVA protection 20 minutes before going outside and re-apply every 2 hours – more often if swimming or perspiring
• Keep babies under six months out of the sun

The Society is also encouraging people to get into the habit of using the UV Index to check the UV level in their area for any particular day across Ireland.

It adds that many skin changes will be harmless - but if you find anything unusual call the National Cancer Helpline on Freefone 1800-200-700 or visit your doctor.

Met Eireann is forecasting that the dry, warm weather will continue over the weekend with further long hours of sunshine through both Saturday and Sunday. Temperatures are expected to stay in the low 20s in many places.

Irish Cancer Society Health Promotion Officer Rosemary Scott says it is all about being sun smart.