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Sun protection is an important part of summer safety. Excess sun exposure can lead to sunburn and heat-related illness. It can also increase the risk of skin cancer.
Follow these sun safety tips to help protect yourself:
- Use a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30. Choose one that protects against both ultraviolet A and B (UVA and UVB) rays. Apply the sunscreen at least 30 minutes before going outside. Reapply it every 2 to 3 hours and after swimming or heavy sweating.
- Use lip balm with at least SPF 30.
- Wear sunglasses that protect against UVA and UVB rays.
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat and cover your arms and legs with loose-fitting, tightly woven clothing.
- Avoid the sun when the rays are strongest, between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Keep babies under 1 year of age out of the sun.
- Avoid tanning booths, as these can cause skin cancer and skin damage.
Heat-related illness is another hazard of the summer sun. Heat-related illness occurs when your body gains heat faster than it can cool off. Seniors, infants and young children, and people doing strenuous activity in hot conditions are particularly at risk.
To reduce the risk of heat-related illness:
- Protect yourself from the sun by following the sun safety tips above.
- Drink plenty of non-alcoholic, caffeine-free fluids. Alcohol and caffeinated beverages can actually dehydrate the body.
- If you can, avoid strenuous work or exercise in a hot environment.
- Never leave infants, children, or pets alone in a parked car. On a hot day, temperatures can reach dangerous levels very quickly and lead to serious illness.
- If you have a family member, friend, or neighbour who is at risk of heat-related illness, check on them regularly during heat waves.
Heatstroke (sunstroke) is a serious heat-related illness that requires emergency medical treatment. Symptoms include:
- hot, dry, red skin
- confusion, restlessness, or anxiety
- loss of consciousness
- seizures
- severe vomiting or diarrhea
- trouble breathing
If someone has heatstroke symptoms, call 9-1-1 or your local emergency number and start emergency first aid for heatstroke.
To learn more about sun protection and heat-related illnesses, see:
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