Summer Sun Safety

Summer is a great time to play outdoors with the family. But before you get out the balls, jump ropes, and plastic pools, make sure your child is prepared. Use these sun safety tips from "SunWise" to help children avoid sunburn now and the risk of skin cancer later.

1. Limit time in the midday sun.
   Find things to do indoors when the sun is hottest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.—not just at noon.
2. Look for shade.
   Play under trees and use umbrellas and sun canopies for some sun protection.
3. Wear a hat.
   Look for hats with wide brims for protection for your eyes, ears, face, and the back of your neck.
4. Wear loose-fitting, full-length clothing.
   Keep your body covered from head to toe.
5. Wear sunglasses that block UV radiation.
   Check the label to make sure your sunglasses block 99 to 100 percent of UV radiation.
6. Always use sunscreen.
   Be sure to apply and reapply sunscreen with at least an SPF of 15 to all exposed skin.

Check the time before you go outside! If it’s between 10 in the morning and 4 in the afternoon, don’t forget your shirt, hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses. Or think of things to do inside. At home, you and your child may like to read, draw, or build; away from home, you may like to go to the library, a museum, or a movie.

Resources:

• “SunWise” from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency provides action steps for parents to take to make sure their family knows about sun safety.
• “Parents Guide to Skin Protection” from the American Cancer Society provides sun safety and prevention tips for the whole family.
• “Sun Safety” from KidsHealth.org gives tips and facts about sun safety and first aid for sunburn.