The US Department of Health has officially christened July UV Safety Month. While practicing sun safety is a year round endeavor it makes sense to take the month to re-energize your efforts for sun safety. Make sure that you are taking all the necessary steps to keep you and your children protected from the sun’s damaging UV rays.
Here is how you can take easy steps to help prevent skin cancer from healthfinder .gov:
- Stay out of the sun between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Use sunscreen with SPF 15 or higher.
- Cover up with long sleeves and a hat.
- Check your skin regularly for any changes.
Sun safety doesn’t stop with your skin. It is essential that all infants, children and adults wear protective sunglasses whenever they are outside. This is particularly true during the summer months. Look for sunglasses that provide 100% UVA and UVB protection. Wrap style sunglasses are recommended to further protect the delicate skin around the eyes from sun damage.
Children learn from their parents so be sure to set a positive example when it comes to sun safety. Don’t forget to always practice the SLOP-SLAP and WRAP sun safety techniques.