The 12 Tips of Christmas

1. Smart Summer Travel

Whether you're heading off by car, plane or sea, always check conditions, pack medications in carry-on, stay hydrated, and take regular stretch breaks.

2. What to Pack (beyond the gifts!)

Think sun protection, reusable water bottle, a small first-aid kit, antihistamines, electrolytes, any regular prescriptions, and a hat you won't lose this time.

Forget your script or referral? Don't forget you can order them online through Automed, no appointment needed, and we can send an e-script to your phone.

3. SPF Decoded - What Makes it Good?

Choose SPF 30-50+, broad spectrum (UVA + UVB), water-resistant. Apply 20 minutes before going out, use 1 teaspoon per limb, and reapply every 2 hours. If it says TGA-approved, you're set.

Have you followed the Choice / TGA findings on sunblock this year; if not, read more hereand check the one you are using is ok!

4. Sun Safety:  Your Summer Superpower

Slip, Slop, Slap, Seek, Slide - still the gold standard.

Peak UV in Australia is 10am - 4pm, so plan shade breaks and avoid falling asleep in the sun (yes, even "just for 5 minutes").

5. Time for a Skin Check

Summer is prime time to book your skin check or TBP (total body photography). Early detection saves lives, and future you, will thank you.

You can book TBP at Woolooware - with our lovely nurses: Lynda, Kirsten and Kaari - they are all ready to take your photos and monitor for changes. It's a great way to be proactive about your skin health.

6. Hydrate Like It's Your Job

Aim for 2-3 litres of water on hot days, more if you're active. Add electrolytes if sweating. Iced coffee does not count as hydration (sadly).

Check with your doctor how much fluids you should be drinking, some people need more, some less - if you have been told you are on a fluid restriction - check how much this is!

7. Party Safe (and Pace Yourself!)

Eat before drinking, alternate water with alcohol, and know your limits. Summer parties are a marathon, not a sprint.

Check if the festival you are attending has drug testing - it's free and a safe way to make informed choices: see here for more information.

8. Get Home Safely

Plan your ride before the event: rideshare, designated driver, or public transport. If you're tired or have been drinking, don't drive - ever.

Did you know FMP have outpatient alcohol detox programs? If you or a loved one needs to talk about drinking less, book in to see one of our GPs to talk about options and if this could work for you.

9. Heat-Smart Exercise

Exercise early morning or late evening. Choose shaded routes, shorten sessions, and listen to your body. Heatstroke is sneaky. Dr Ryan and Dr Sam are our keen bike riders - if you see them out on the trails or the roads this summer, say hi! They love a chat about where to ride and how to improve fitness over summer.

10. Protect the Newborns

Babies under 6 months: no direct sun, no sunscreen on delicate skin. Use shade, pram covers, light cotton clothing and avoid heat exposure.

Not sure about newborn feedings; did you know we have a IBCLC (think all things feeding newborn - breast or bottle specialist) in house - Dr Mel! She can work with you from before birth, to newborn days, to breast/bottle refusal!

11. Summer First-Aid Must-Knows

Think bites, stings, rashes and heat exhaustion. Know how to cool quickly: shade, hydration, cold packs on neck/armpits/groin.

Kirrawee is open as usual (including weekends, excluding public holidays) over the festive season - if you're not sure, or wanting to avoid lengthy ED times - book to see us. If you can't find an appointment online - please give us a call and we will see what we can do - we always want to try and fit in our usual patients when needed.

Woolooware is open Mon - Fri as usual (closed public holidays).

Kurnell is closed December 24th - January 2nd.

12. Celebrate with Joy

And as we come to the end of the year, take time to look back, and celebrate the good times, the joy and the wins of the year.

As we think of the joy and heartache that we endure this December - please if you are struggling with any events, recent or past, please see your GP - we want to see you in the good times and the bad, and help you, and your family.

Merry Christmas

FMP Family