Don’t Sizzle in the Sun

by Stacey Valley

keep safe in sun

Even though the dog days of summer are almost over, it’s never too late for a reminder of how to safely enjoy your time in the sun. Here are a few tips so you and your loved ones don’t sizzle in the sun and pay the consequences later:

 

  • Wear clothes. Reduce your burn risk by 27% by covering yourself with a hat, shirt and pants. 
  • Find shade – or make it. Find refuge under a beach umbrella or shade tree. 
  • Keep infants in the shade. Their delicate skin is more prone to burns.
  • Wear sunglasses – and not just for a fashion statement. Sunglasses protect your eyes from UV radiation. 
  • Timing is everything. Plan to be outside in early morning or late afternoon when the sun isn’t as strong.
  • Don’t sizzle. Burns are bad. Don’t let yourself get red, sore or blistered. 
  • Consult the weather man. Each day is given a UV Index which predicts the level of solar UV radiation. The higher the number, the higher the risk. 
  • Not all sunscreen are created equal. Do your research. You can start here
  • Of all the sunscreens, Zinc Oxide provides the best protection. 
  • Avoid spray sunscreens since inhalation of the chemicals can be harmful. 
  • Stay hydrated. Drink half your body weight in ounces of water a day. (Example: If you weight 150lbs., drink 75oz. of water each day.)

 

Summer may quickly fading, but Arkansas sun shines on. So stay safe by taking these precautions. Your health is worth the effort. 

StaceyValley headshotStacey is a wife, mom, and public health professional. She lives in North Little Rock with her husband Anthony and their four daughters. Her life’s motto is “Live big. Love deep.” 

Her blog is a hodgepodge of adoption, cooking, travel and parenting posts. You can find her online at…

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