Safety Reference Guides

Sunshine Safety

Humans need and love the sun, however, skin cancer continues to be a growing threat. According to an article in the March 26, 1997, Chicago Tribune, a person's risk for melanoma rose from 1 in 1,500 in 1930, to 1 in 250 in 1980.

Even though skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States, it is also the most preventable of all cancers. By observing the following suggestions from the American Academy of Dermatology, the risk of skin cancer can be reduced:

• Apply a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15.
• Reapply sunscreen every 2 hours when outdoors, even on cloudy days.
• Wear protective, tightly woven clothing, such as a long-sleeved shirt and pants.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses when outdoors.
• Stay in the shade whenever possible.
• Avoid reflective surfaces, which can reflect up to 85 percent of the sun's damaging rays.
• Protect children. Minimize sun exposure and apply sunscreen to children aged 6 months and older.
• No shadow..seek the shade! If your shadow is shorter than you are, you're likely to sunburn.
• Avoid tanning beds.
• Remember, the sun's rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

Safe Sun tips from the American Academy of Dermatology, www.aad.org.