Sun Safety

Spring has finally arrived in Alberta and it is finally time to enjoy the outdoors.  While we enjoy the warmth of the sun we also have to take precautions from it.  The need for sun safety has become clear over the past 30 years.  With studies showing that exposure to the sun can cause skin cancer.  Sun damage to the body is caused by invisible ultraviolet (UV) radiation.  No matter what our skin colors, we’re all susceptible to sunburn.  People who need to be especially careful in the sun are those who have pale skin, blond, red, or light brown hair, been treated for skin cancer, or who has a family member who’s had skin cancer.  If you take medicines, ask your health care professional or pharmacist about extra sun-care precautions, because some medications may increase sensitivity to the sun.  Here are some tips to stay safe from the sun.

Reduce Time in the Sun:

The sun’s rays are the strongest between 10am to 4pm.  Even on an overcast day, up to 80 percent of the sun’s UV rays can get through the clouds.  Stay in the shade as much as possible throughout the day.

Dress with Care:

If you plan to be outside on a sunny day, cover as much of your body as possible.  Wear a wide brimmed hat, long sleeves, and long pants.  Consider using an umbrella for shade.

Be Serious about sunscreen:

Make sure you check sunscreen labels before buying.  The higher the number, the better the protection.  SPF represents the degree to which a sunscreen can protect the skin from sunburn.

Tips for applying Sunscreen:

·       Apply the recommended amount evenly to all uncovered skin, especially your lips, nose, ears, neck, hands, and feet.

·       Apply sunscreen 15 minutes before going out in the sun.

·       If you don’t have much hair, apply sunscreen to the top of your head, or wear a hat.

·       Reapply at least every two hours.

·       Give babies and children extra care in the sun.  Babies should never be placed in direct sunlight.

·       Apply sunscreen to children older than 6 months every time they go out.

Protect the Eyes

Sunlight reflecting off sand or water further increases exposure to UV radiation, increasing your risk of developing cataracts.

Long hours on the beach without adequate eye protection can also result in a short-term condition known as photo keratitis, or reversible sunburn of the cornea.

Here are other tips for eye-related sun safety.

·       When buying sunglasses, look for a label that specifically offers 99 to 100 percent UV protection.

·       Eyewear should be labeled “sunglasses.”

·       Don’t assume that you get more UV protection with pricier sunglasses or from glasses with a darker tint.

·       Be sure your sunglasses don’t distort colors and affect the recognition of traffic signals.

·       Ask an eye care professional to test your sunglasses if you’re not sure.

·       People who wear contact lenses that offer UV protection should still wear sunglasses.