Sun Safety

Here are things that you can do to protect yourself and your family from the sun and harmful UV rays:

Check the weather forecast for the daily UV Index every day to plan outdoor activities.
When the UV index is 3 or higher:
- Limit time in the direct sun between 11 am and 3 pm when the sun’s UV rays are the strongest.
- Find shade from trees, umbrellas or buildings.
- Wear hats with wide brims that cover your ears, face and back of the neck.
- Wear loose-fitting, light weight clothing that covers your arms and legs.
- Wear close fitting / wraparound sunglasses with UV 400 or 100% UV protection. Anytime of the day all year round.
- Wear sunglasses that cover the entire eye.
- Use sunscreen labeled “broad spectrum” and “water-resistant” with a Sun Protective Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher on everybody older than six months of age.
Always keep babies out of direct sunlight or in the shade such as under a tree, umbrella or canopy.
Drink lots of water.
Do not use tanning beds or deliberately try to get a suntan, and avoid getting sunburn.

How to use sunscreen

Here are some tips on how to use sunscreen:

Choose a sunscreen that is broad spectrum and water- resistant with a Sun Protective Factor, or SPF, of 30 or higher.
Always read and follow the manufacturer's recommendations on the bottle or tube.
Apply enough sunscreen to leave a light film on your skin (e.g., one palm‐full for each arm and one for each leg).
Apply sunscreen to ears, nose, tops of feet and backs of knees. back of neck and backs of legs. Use sunscreen lip balm to protect your lips.
Apply sunscreen 20 minutes before you go outside.
Apply sunscreen before other skin products. Re-apply sunscreen regularly, especially after sweating, swimming, or toweling.
Make sure to use sunscreen even on cloudy, hazy, foggy and cold days.
Sunscreen should also be used during the winter months on exposed areas of skin.
Do not put sunscreen on babies less than 6 months of age.
Always test for an allergic reaction when first using a sunscreen. Apply a small amount on the inside of your forearm for two or three days in a row. If the skin reacts or turns red, change sunscreens.