No one is completely safe from the sun. In Canada, sunlight is strong enough to cause skin cancer and premature aging of the skin. The risk of skin cancer today is greater than it was 20 years ago and continues to increase.
In order to reduce your risk of skin cancer, the Canadian Cancer Society encourages Canadians to practice sun safety this summer:
- Avoid outdoors activities between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m., especially during spring, summer and fall, when the UV Index is typically 3 or higher.
- Seek shade.
- Wear protective clothing, broad-brimmed hats and sunglasses.
- Use sunscreen properly. Apply to all parts of the body that are not covered by clothing.
UV Index
Environment Canada’s UV Index is a useful tool when it comes to sun protection. It tells you the strength of the sun’s daily UV rays – the higher the number, the stronger the sun’s rays and the more important it is to protect yourself.
Source: Environment Canada 2010
The UV Index is sponsored by the Canadian Cancer Society. Click here learn more about protecting your skin from the sun.
