Huron County, ON – School’s almost out for the summer, and the Health Unit is reminding families to enjoy the sun safely.
Ultraviolet radiation, or UV rays, from the sun cause sunburns, skin cancer and eye damage. Children are most at risk because they tend to spend more time outdoors when the sun’s rays are strongest. So make sun safety a new family rule!
Here’s how you can protect yourself and your family this summer:
- Time of Day: Limit time in the sun when the UV index is higher, usually between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.
- Shade: Seek shade or make your own – bring an umbrella.
- Cover Up: Wear lightweight clothing that covers as much skin as possible.
- Sunscreen: Choose an approved broad-spectrum sunscreen. Apply plenty of sunscreen with SPF 30 or more. Reapply often, especially after swimming or sweating. Use a sunscreen lip balm, too.
- Sunglasses: Wear close-fitting or wrap-around sunglasses with UV 400 or 100% UV protection.
Do not use sunscreen on babies less than six months old. Protect them by keeping them out of direct sunlight.
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Huron County Health Unit is pleased to be able to promote making sun protection a #newfamilyrule. Graphics and information pertaining to newfamilyrule.com is supported by the David Cornfield Melanoma Fund and the Douglas Wright Foundation.