Sun Safety

Here's how you can protect yourself from the sun and have a safe, fun-filled summer.

by Cassandra Howard

Making memories and friends during summer camp can last a lifetime, but so can the harmful effects of the sun. The damage that leads to adult skin cancers can start in childhood. According to the American Academy of Dermatology: "A number of studies have confirmed that repeated sunburns substantially increase the risk for melanoma. This is especially true for childhood sunburns because there is more time and opportunity for subsequent sun damage to lead to melanoma" (http://www.aad.org/public/News/DermInfo/DInfoSafeSunTips.htm).

Here's how you can protect yourself from the sun and have a safe, fun-filled summer.

1. Limit outdoor activities between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.

2. Wear protective clothing, including hats that cover your ears and neck.

3. Apply sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 liberally, uniformly and frequently.

4. Reapply sunscreen every two hours.

5. Stay in the shade whenever possible.

6. Avoid reflective surfaces, which can reflect up to 85 percent of the sun's damaging rays.

7. Avoid tanning beds.

Sunscreen should be used every day you are spending 20 minutes or more in the sun. Apply sunscreen to dry skin 15 to 30 minutes before going outdoors. Sunscreen should be water-resistant and generally has a shelf life of three years. Check the expiration date. For more information, check the American Academy of Dermatology Web site (http://www.aad.org/public/News/DermInfo/DInfoSafeSunTips.htm). VT