PROTECTING YOURSELF
FROM THE SUN
Repetition is the key to understanding - which is why we are reminding
you to protect yourself from excessive exposure to the ultraviolet
rays (UV) of the sun. Exposure to UV radiation has increased over
the years due to the depletion of the ozone layer, a naturally-occurring gas that filters
the sun's UV radiation. For some people, overexposure to UV rays
can lead to skin cancer, cataracts and weakened immune systems.
To protect against sun-related damage, follow these rules:
Wear those shades. Sunglasses that provide 99-100% of UVA and
UVB protection greatly reduce sun exposure that can lead to cataracts
and other eye damage. Be sure to check the label when buying sunglasses
to make sure they have proper UV protection.
Lather on the sunscreen. Use a sunscreen with Sun Protection Factor
(SPF) of at least 15. Apply it liberally to all exposed areas
of your body, particularly your ears, face, back and neck. Reapply
every 2 hours when working, playing, or exercising outdoors; even
waterproof sunscreen can come off when you towel off sweat or
water.
Listen to the weather reports. The UV Index, developed by the
National Weather Service and the Environmental Protection Agency,
provides a forecast of the expected risk of overexposure to the
sun and indicates the degree of caution that you should take when
working, playing or exercising outdoors. Weather predictions in
print and broadcast media announce the UV Index daily.
Stay clear of the midday sun as much as possible. The sun's UV
rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. If you're spending
the day at the beach, take refuge under a beach umbrella during
those hours when the sun's rays are most intense.
Dress Up. Wear light, long-sleeved shirts and ankle-length pants
if you're going to be out in the sun for long periods of time
and you'd rather not wear sunscreen. A wide brimmed hat will shade
your face, neck, ears and eyes.
Written by:
Earth Share. Earth Share, a federation of America's leading non-profit
environmental and conservation charities, promotes environmental
education and charitable giving in workplace payroll deduction
campaigns. For more information about how your workplace can
host its own campaign, please contact us at:
info@earthshare.org or call us at (800) 875-3863.