July 2021 PSA: Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Awareness Month

July is Ultraviolet (UV) Safety Awareness Month

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After spending all summer last year indoors due to the pandemic, it’s understandable why people are eager to spend more time outside this year.

However, UV Safety Awareness Month is an excellent reminder to be proactive about sun protection — particularly when it comes to dangerous UV rays.

If possible, avoid being in the sun during the brightest parts of the day – 10 am to 4 pm.

Wear sunscreen – with an SPF of at least 30 and reapply every two hours for maximum protection. If you are perspiring or in the water, consider applying every hour.

Cover up – Try to wear light-colored, lightweight materials that do not absorb as much sunlight. Look for sunglasses labeled “UV400” or “100% UV Protection.” Wear a wide-brimmed hat to shade your head, face, and neck.

By learning the risks associated with too much sun exposure and taking the right precautions to protect you and your family from UV rays, everyone can enjoy the sun and outdoors safely.

Links

• https://www.cdc.gov/cancer/skin/basic_info/sun-safety.htm
  
• https://www.epa.gov/sunsafety/action-steps-sun-safety
• https://www.weather.gov/safety/heat-uv