Sun safety

Be sun smart with these sun safety tips

Spending time outdoors is a great way to stay active and healthy. But when you're out in the sun, it's important to think about sun safety. Review these tips to help protect you and your loved ones.

Wear sunscreen

Sunscreen is a key part of sun safety. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends wearing it every day (your skin can burn when it’s cloudy too). Besides protecting against sun damage, sunscreen may lower your risk of skin cancers and skin precancers.

When choosing a sunscreen, here’s what to look for:

Apply 1 ounce of sunscreen — about 2 tablespoons — to your entire body 30 minutes before heading outside. This gives the sunscreen enough time to bind to your skin. Make sure to cover those easy-to-miss spots, like the tops of your ears, back of your neck and the part line on your scalp. Reapply every 2 hours or immediately after swimming or excessive sweating.

Sunblock vs. sunscreen

Check the UV Index

The UV Index lets you know how strong the UV light is in your area on any given day. UV light is measured on a scale from 1 to 11+. The higher the number, the greater your risk of sunburn and skin damage. Check your local weather report for the UV Index (it’s part of most forecasts).  When planning time outside, remember that the sun is strongest between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.  The sun is also stronger at higher elevations and when you’re near water.

Choose eyewear and clothes with sun protection

Covering your skin adds an extra layer of defense when you’re in the sun. Many companies make sun-protective clothing that can help block UV rays. Look for the UV Protection Factor (UPF) label. It will tell you the garment’s level of protection from UV rays, on a scale from 15 to 50+. A higher number means more UV protection.

And don’t forget about your eyes. Help protect them by wearing UV-blocking sunglasses and broad brimmed hats — even on cloudy days. Also, never look directly into the sun.

Watch for signs of sun- and heat-related illnesses

Heat-related illnesses happen when the body overheats and cannot properly cool itself. Certain heat-related illnesses, like heat stroke, can be life threatening.  Sun-related illnesses can also cause complications. Get familiar with the symptoms so you know what to watch for.

Help prevent heat-related illnesses by following these simple rules

  • Stay hydrated
  • Wear appropriate clothing
  • Stay cool indoors
  • Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle (even with the window cracked)

Look out for those who may be at increased risk

  • People over 65
  • People with chronic conditions
  • Infants and children
  • Outdoor workers
  • Low-income households
  • Athletes