July is "Sun Safety Month". It's that time of the year to go outside and enjoy the sun. It is during these summer months that it is important to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun, like sunburn, or worse, skin cancer. Make sure to always wear sunscreen and stay in shade whenever possible.
Here are a few easy steps that will help you stay safe in the sun this summer:
- Seek shade whenever possible, especially between 10am and 4pm, which is when the sun's rays are the strongest.
- Wear protective clothing. This includes long-sleeved shirts and long pants. Clothes made out of tightly woven fabrics will protect you the best.
- Wear a hat and sunglasses. A hat with a wide brim will shade your face, ears, and the back of your neck. Sunglasses will protect your eyes from the sun's rays.
- Apply sunscreen. Sunscreen will help you avoid sunburn and lower you risk of skin cancer.
- Stay hydrated. Drink fluids throughout the day to prevent your body from getting dried out.
For more information, please visit the Sun Safety Alliance website at www.sunsafetyalliance.org.
