Having Fun in the Sun

 Long sleeves and other clothing such as long pants to protect as much skin as possible  Choose comfortable clothes that are made of tightly woven fabrics that you cannot see through when held up to a light.  Dark color clothing are general better.  Can use Ultraviolet Protection Factor (UPF) that block the UV rays.

 Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen which is one that protects against UVA and UVB  Select a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of 15 or higher.  Apply generously to all exposed skin  Must apply one ounce or a palmful to be effective  Apply 30 minutes before going out in the sun.  Reapply every two hours and immediately after swimming, toweling dry or sweating.  Use on hazy or cloudy days, and during cool or cold weather.  Waterproof provides protection for at least 80 minutes.  Water resistant provides only 40 minutes of protection.

 Select a hat with a wide brim  3 to 4 inch brim  Shades your face, ears, and neck

 Should be % UV absorption  Labeled as blocking UVA and UVB light  Cosmetic block about 70% of the UV rays  Prescription glass wearers should check with optometrist regarding protection  Darkness does not indicate how protective they are.  Protection comes from an invisible chemical applied to the lenses.  Choose sunglasses that fit close to your head and have a wrap-around style to stop UV radiation from getting in around the sides and tops of the lenses.

 If your shadow is shorter than you are, the sun’s rays are their strongest.  Find a shady area.

 Stay out of the sun between 10:00 am and 4:00pm

 Read the situations on the “Tell Me What to Do.” worksheet.  Select 3 situations.  What advice you would give the person in the situation to stay safe in the sun.  List as many ideas as you can.  Read and discuss “Are You and Your Family Sun Safe?”