[highlight bgcolor=”#eded74″]The beach life can be a blast. But severe skin burn and heat stroke is no fun at all. Here are some things you can while in the sun on the beach:[/highlight]
- Even on rather cool, cloudy or hazy days, be extra careful. Water, snow, ice and sand reflect the sun’s rays. Also, UV light is more intense at high altitudes. The beach is not high, and there is no snow for sure — but the sand and ocean/gulf act like a giant mirror.
- Avoid sun exposure between 10 AM and 4 PM. When he sun’s rays are really strong during these hours, try to stay indoors and participate in outdoor activities earlier or later. If you’re can’t do that, spend less time in the sun and look for shade. Bring a large umbrella or tent to the beach.
- Cover up all over if the sun is really bad. Wear clothing that is tightly woven and also cover arms and legs. If the sun on the beach is really bad — and this is true when hiking also — wear clothing specially designed to give sun protection. Look at the label for an ultraviolet protection factor (UPF), that shows how much a fabric blocks sunlight.
- And wear a broad-brimmed hat; it protects you better than a baseball cap or golf visor
- Use sunscreen often and generously no matter your skin type. A broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 15 or greater is best.
- For kids, use sunscreen on toddlers and babies 6 months or older. However, for younger babies using other types of sun protection, such as shade or clothing
- Wear sunglasses when you are outdoors — especially at the beach!
- Don’t think that your “base tan” will protect you. Having a tan from the sun outdoors or from a tanning booth DOES NOT prevent sunburn and sun damage or skin cancer.
- Watch for sunstroke! Wearing too much clothing or tight clothing won’t let your body to cool off properly.
- Drink a lot of fluids. If you stay hydrated your body can sweat and stay at a normal body temperature.
- Be careful with certain medications. Some medications can affect the body’s ability to remain hydrated and get rid of heat.
- Never leave anybody in a parked car. This means kids. This means dogs. The temperature in your car can go 20 degrees F over the outside temperature in 10 minutes. A quick death! Bring everyone to the beach or inside.
[highlight bgcolor=”#eded74″ txtcolor=”#dd5252″]PLAY IT SAFE! Have a good time on the beach, but stay cool and protect your skin. Do the same for all your loved ones![/highlight]
