These are the longest days of the year and the sun is at its highest and strongest peak. We have waited all winter for this time of warmth and sunshine!
However the sun’s rays can be very harmful to our health if not taken seriously enough.
Small children and babies have very delicate skin and can burn easily. To protect their tender skin from the ultra violet rays it is important to apply sun protection and keep them out of direct sunlight as much as possible.
Sunscreen with an SPF (sun protection factor) of 30 should be applied 15 minutes before going outside. This allows time for the skin to absorb the lotion properly.
Wear a wide brimmed hat, light, long sleeved shirt and pants when working outside. The time between 10-2 is when the sun is at the highest and should be avoided if possible.
Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer and is the most preventable. The sun‘s rays go into the skin and harm the DNA within the cells of the skin. As the body works to repair the damage this may result in uncontrolled cell growth which may lead to skin cancer. It is important to check the skin for changes or abnormal growths.
SLIP into a long sleeved shirt
SLAP on a hat
SLOP on some sunscreen
It is important to stay hydrated when working outside. As the skin produces sweat the body looses water and needs to be constantly replenished. Keeping a water bottle handy will help to cool and rehydrate the body and keep it functioning properly. Heat and sun stroke can be fatal if not addressed soon enough.
If children get into the habit of protecting themselves from the sun at a young age, they will hopefully be able to prevent getting skin cancer later in their lives!
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