UVA and UVB rays are types of ultraviolet radiation from the sun that affect the skin differently. UVA rays penetrate deeply into the skin, causing aging and long-term damage, while UVB rays primarily affect the surface, leading to sunburns and playing a key role in the development of skin cancer. Both types of rays can harm the skin, making broad-spectrum sunscreen important for protection
Notably, UV light from the sun can damage skin cells and increase skin cancer risk. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 6.1 million people are treated annually for basal cell carcinoma and squamous cell carcinoma, the two most common types of skin cancer. More concerning still, data collected by the Skin Cancer Foundation found that over 9,500 individuals are diagnosed with skin cancer every day, and more than two people die from the disease every hour.
However, your skin is not the only part of the body at risk of sun damage. Prolonged exposure to UV rays can also harm your eyes, leading to conditions such as cataracts, macular degeneration and even ocular melanoma, all of which can permanently affect your quality of life. These issues underscore the need to prioritize sun safety.
Now we know sun damage is serioud! So how to protect ourselves?
Here are some essential tips that may help you protect your skin and eyes from the sun’s harmful UV rays:
- Apply sunscreen generously. Use broad-spectrum SPF 30+ sunscreen. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure and reapply every 2 hours or after sweating or swimming
- Wear protective clothing. Wear long-sleeved shirts, pants, and wide-brimmed hats for sun protection. For added safety, choose clothing with a UPF of 30 or higher
- Consider sunglasses with UV protection. Choose UV-blocking sunglasses, preferably wraparound styles, for maximum eye protection from harmful rays
- Seek shade. Limit sun exposure between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m., to greatly reduce UV exposure
When UV is strong, you might get heat exhaustion. But what is heat exhaustion?
The summer heat can lead to various illnesses, some of which are serious if not addressed promptly. Heat exhaustion occurs when the body loses excessive water and salt through sweating. Without intervention, heat exhaustion can escalate to heatstroke, a life-threatening emergency that requires immediate medical attention to prevent permanent damage or death.
Heat Exhaustion Symptoms:
- Heavy sweating
- Cool, moist skin
- Weakness and/or dizziness
- Nausea and muscle spasms/cramps
- Fever of 100 F or higher
Heatstroke Symptoms:
- Fever of 104 F or higher
- Disorientation or confusion
- Nausea & vomiting
- Hot and dry skin
- Headache
- Rapid pulse
Heat-related illness can come on rapidly. Recognizing the symptoms and taking appropriate action can prevent these conditions from becoming life-threatening. Watch for these signs of heat-related illness and act quickly, and when in doubt, call 911.
While UV might cause these symptoms, Grilling is another common reason why people get the symptoms.
Although grilling is a popular way to prepare food, it can also be dangerous. According to the National Fire Protection Association, an average of 9,000 home fires involve grills, hibachis or barbecues each year. May, June, July and August are the most active months for grill fires, with July being the top month. Keep these fire safety tips in mind when grilling:
- Grill Placement & Ventilation
Set grill at least 10 feet from structures & never use them in enclosed or unventilated areas to prevent fire and carbon monoxide risks.
- Gas Grill Safety
Set grill aInspect propane connections for leaks, turn off gas if a leak is suspected, and wait 5 minutes before relighting if the flame goes out
- Proper Fuel Use
Use only charcoal starter fluid for charcoal grills—never use it on gas grills, gas grill fill with gas really quickly, but it is normally invisible and a little smellable, it will be all over before you notice.
- Supervision & Safety
Keep children and pets at least 3 feet away and never leave a grill unattended while in use
- Fire Prevention
Avoid overloading with fatty foods and regularly clean grates and trays to reduce flare-ups and grease fires.