Sun Safety Tips
Most of us enjoy the arrival of the sunshine and warm weather and cannot wait to spend more time outdoors. However, exposure to the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays can lead to:
- Skin cancer
- Skin damage (e.g., premature aging of the skin, wrinkles)
- Sunburns
- Eye lesions
- Cataracts
- Retinal burns
How to Enjoy the Sun Safely
Exposure to UV rays can harm the skin and eyes. You can protect yourself and your family and still have fun under the sun.
When the UV index is three or higher, protect your skin and eyes as much as possible. In general, the UV Index in Canada can be three or higher from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. between April and September, even when it's cloudy.
Before you head outdoors, follow these sun safety tips:
- Time of day
Limit time in the sun when the UV index is three or higher, usually between 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Find your UV index.
- Shade
Seek shade or make shade by using an umbrella, a UV protective tent or pop up shade shelter. Keep babies younger than one year of age out of direct sunlight.
- Cover up
Wear clothes that cover as much skin as possible. Wear wide brimmed hats or baseball caps that cover the head, neck and ears.
- Sunscreen
Apply plenty of sunscreen with SPF 30 or more, labelled "broad spectrum" and "water resistant". Reapply when needed, especially after swimming, sweating, or towelling. Use a sunscreen lip balm. Sunscreen may be used on babies over six months of age; avoid the mouth and eye areas.
- Sunglasses
Wear close fitting / wrap-around sunglasses with UV 400 or 100 per cent UV protection. Sunglasses for babies and children should be unbreakable.
Avoid getting a tan or sunburn, and exposing yourself to UV rays to meet vitamin D needs.
More sun safety tips for parents© Niagara Region - 1815 Sir Isaac Brock Way, Thorold, ON, L2V 4T7 - Phone: 905-980-6000, Toll-free: 1-800-263-7215
