AS summer finally kicks in health experts in the North-East are urging people to enjoy the season safely.

Warm weather brings with it increased risk of sunburn, food poisoning, infection from farm animals - and even potentially lethal carbon monoxide poisoning. Dr Roberta Marshall, director of the North East Public Health England Centre, said: "Following just a few simple precautions can help families to avoid the pitfalls that could lead to problems."

Those preparing for caravanning and camping holidays are being urged to be aware of the potential health risks associated with carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning.

Poorly maintained caravan appliances such as liquefied petroleum gas or kerosene-powered fridges, heaters or cookers can put caravan users at risk from the potentially deadly gas.

Carbon monoxide is known as the 'silent killer' as it is a colourless and odourless gas. Exposure to high levels causes more than 40 accidental deaths and over 200 serious injuries each year in England and Wales.

People tempted to hold BBQs indoors are warned not to as they can produce harmful levels of CO in closed environments.

Sunburn, heatstroke and even skin cancer can result from over-exposure to the sun.

Dr Marshall said: "Around 7,000 new cases of malignant melanoma (skin cancer) are recorded each year in the UK and over 1,000 die from the disease."

Each year, the number of cases of food poisoning increases significantly as the weather gets warmer and eating outside become more frequent.

Storing, handling and cooking food properly will reduce the risk and avoiding cross-contamination is also extremely important.

Dr Marshall added: '"lean hands in the kitchen are vital in the fight against food poisoning and food must be kept at the right temperature.

"Ensuring food is cooked properly will kill food bugs."