As the hot summer temperatures climb, families are taking advantage of the warm weather to enjoy lazy afternoons at the pool, fun-filled family camping trips, frolics at the park and other outdoor adventures. However, parents should also take heed of a danger lurking above.
To kick off summer, today is designated “Don’t Fry Day” by the National Council on Skin Cancer Prevention! The day, scheduled on the Friday before Memorial Day hopes to help reduce rising rates of skin cancer from overexposure to the UV rays. The council encourages sun safety awareness and reminds everyone to protect their skin while enjoying the outdoors. Because no single step can fully protect you and your family from overexposure to UV radiation, follow as many of the following tips as possible:
Do Not Burn or Tan
Seek Shade
Wear Sun-Protective Clothing
Generously Apply Sunscreen
Use Extra Caution Near Water, Snow, and Sand
Get Vitamin D Safely
The summer sun can pose a special risk to babies and young children. Medical professionals urge parents to pay careful attention to sun safety to protect their family now from sunburns and skin cancer later in life. The American Academy of Pediatrics offers these tips to protect children from the sun:
Keep babies younger than 6 months out of direct sunlight. Find shade under a tree, umbrella or the stroller canopy.
When possible, dress yourself and your kids in cool, comfortable clothing that ... Continue Reading