How to be Sun Smart this Summer

How to be Sun Smart this Summer

Summer is well on the way and with deadly skin cancers on the rise, it’s important to protect your skin and eyes if you are going to be in the sun this summer.

Here are some helpful tips to remember.

1. Don’t get caught unprepared – the weather forcast is not always accurate. Some days when they predict rain the sun comes out instead. Make sure you carry sunscreen in your car, backpack or at the office as well as home so you don’t get caught without it.
2. Add a wide brimmed hat and sunglasses to the list – the sun can also damage the eyes and burn the back of your neck. Ballcap, not gonna cut it.
3. Make sure you use enough sunscreen – apply a generous layer and don’t rub it in too thoroughly, let it absorb on it’s own.
4. Shoulders, chest, nose, ears and back of your neck – all these areas are the first to burn and usually burn the worst. Make sure you apply sunscreen to these areas also.
5. Avoid being in the sun at peak times – midday is usually when UV rays are the strongest. Try to avoid being directly in the sun during these times.
6. Long sleeves and darker colored clothing – white or light colors do not provide the best sun protection. Make sure you apply sunscreen under your clothing also if it is light colored.
7. Find shade if you need to!
8. Make sure your sunscreen is at least SPF 40 or higher
9. Reapply sunscreen often – make sure you reapply sunscreen every hour, especially if you are in the water or sweating during sports.
10. Stay hydrated – make sure you are drinking enough water when the temperature is higher and when you are out in the sun.

Hope these tips are helpful, have a fun and safe summer everyone!

Produced by Ron Zalko