Fun in the Sun!

Raise your hand if you enjoy getting outside on nice, warm, sunny day! There are many benefits to getting a dose of vitamin D from the sun, but we all should be cautious about too much exposure to those UV rays. Here are a few tips to remember when spending a lot of time outside: 

1. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), UV rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Try to do your outside work or play before or after that time frame, or try to spend as much of that time in the shade as you can. 
2. If you must be in clothing for a large amount of time during that window, wear light loose-fitted clothes that will shield your skin from the sun. 
3. Don’t forget to protect your eyes! Be sure to grab a pair of sunglasses with UV protection. 
4. Sunscreen, sunscreen, sunscreen! A sunscreen with broad-spectrum protection and SPF of at least 30 is recommended by ACS. Be sure to reapply as often as directed.
5. Hydrate!! Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Make it fun for children (and adults!) by offering popsicles or flavored water. 

The CDC also shares their summer sun safety tips in this short video: https://youtu.be/bKxG31XDbhA.

Enjoy your summer, safely!