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Sun Safety
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With one in five Americans developing skin cancer,
childhood education about sun safety is a vital step toward reducing risk and
improving public health. The National Safety Council is helping to address this
serious health issue by providing fact sheets and educational outreach programs
to parents, teachers, and others nationwide.
Most children rack up between 50% and 80% of their lifetime sun
exposure before age 18, so it's important that parents teach their children how
to enjoy fun in the sun safely. With the right precautions, you can greatly
reduce your child's chance of developing skin cancer. Summer is a time for pool parties, beach parties, and sun bathing. However,
with the suns rays growing ever stronger, you should take sun safety precautions
to prevent overheating and dehydration. Here are some summer safety tips as you
spend your days in the sun and heat: |
Sun Safety Tips
- When sunbathing, always wear sunscreen,
preferably SPF 15. Reapply it every two hours.
- Try to stay in the shade during the hours of
10am and 4pm, when the sun is at its strongest.
- Wear sunglasses and a hat when sunbathing at the
beach. If possible, bring or rent an umbrella. (This
is especially important if you are bringing the kids
along.)
- Drink plenty of water on a hot day, either in
your backyard pool, or at the beach. You want to
avoid any form of dehydration. You can also buy some
Gatorade or Propel.
- When exposing babies to the sun, ensure they are
wearing lightweight clothing, including hats with
brims. It’s also safe to apply suntan lotion to
their face, and the back of their hands, as well.
- For younger and older children, apply sunscreen
thirty minutes before going out to the pool, beach,
or engaging in any activities. Ensure you have
plenty of fluids for them to drink, as well.
- If you go to the supermarket, or engage in any
outdoor activity on a very hot day, dress in
light-colored cotton clothing, wear sunscreen, and
sunglasses, and be sure to bring plenty of water
with you. Unfortunately, the older we get, the more
likely we may suffer from dehydration.
- If you and your family are participating in any
physical activity, make sure you are all well
hydrated. Drink liquids every 20 minutes.
- If it’s very, very hot, reduce your activity to
fifteen minutes. The moment you become dizzy or
flushed – stop. Go to a shaded area, and drink water
until your body has a chance to cool down.
- Take care of your pets. Ensure they have plenty
of water to drink, and are kept in a shaded area in
your backyard. Otherwise, keep them indoors, and
limit their activity as well.
- Carry wet washcloths in a plastic bag, if you
are spending the day out. This is great to have if
you are feeling faint, or are walking for a long
period.
- When driving, especially in high temperatures,
bring bottles of water and wet wash clothes, as
well.
We have all felt the affects of the weather
over the past couple of years. With temperatures in
the 100’s, or above in most states, it’s important
to follow these tips, as well as listening to the
radio or news channels. Remember: Safety first,
summer fun later!
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