Protect Yourself from the Winter Sun
How do you protect yourself from the winter sun (or any other season)? Follow these simple sun safety action steps recommended by the US Environmental Protection Agency:
- Limit Time in the Midday Sun – The sun’s rays are strongest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Whenever possible, limit exposure to the sun during these hours.
- Wear a Hat – A hat with a wide brim offers good sun protection to your eyes, ears, face, and the back of your neck – areas particularly prone to overexposure to the sun.
- Cover Up – Wearing tightly woven, loose-fitting, and full-length clothing is a good way to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays.
- Wear Sunglasses that Block 99-100% of UV Radiation -Sunglasses that provide 99-100% UVA and UVB protection will greatly reduce sun exposure that can lead to cataracts and other eye damage. Check the label when buying sunglasses.
- Always Use Sunscreen – Apply a broad spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of at least 15 or higher liberally on exposed skin. Reapply every 2 hours, or after working, swimming, playing, or exercising outdoors. Even waterproof sunscreen can come off when you towel off, sweat, or spend extended periods of time in the water.
- Avoid Sunlamps and Tanning Parlors – The light source from sunbeds and sunlamps damages the skin and unprotected eyes. It’s a good idea to avoid artificial sources of UV light.
- Watch for the UV Index – The UV Index provides important information to help you plan your outdoor activities in ways that prevent overexposure to the sun. Developed by the National Weather Service (NWS) and EPA, the UV Index is issued daily in selected cities across the United States.
