Summertime has arrived, and kids are officially out of school. Over the next few months, your kids will be indulging in a variety of outdoor activities that will help them get plenty of exercise and fresh air. While fun in the sun is good, too much sun exposure is not so good. There are several important tips you can take to ensure your child is thoroughly protected and safe:
1. Limit Time Spent in Direct Sunlight
Most people don’t understand how damaging the sun can be to the skin. The UV rays of the sun can start damaging your skin in just a few short minutes. While the effect of UV rays may not be immediate, it can double the risk of a person getting cancer years down the road. To avoid getting too much sun if possible.
2. Use Sunscreen to Block the Sun’s Rays
Always use a liberal amount of broad-spectrum sunscreen if you’re going to be in the sun for an extended period of time. Sunscreens can be purchased in a variety of forms including creams, gels, and lotions. Be sure to apply the sunscreen to all exposed areas including the lips, ears, and nose. If your child is swimming, be sure to reapply sunscreen every few hours for maximum protection.
3. Put on Layers of Clothes
Layered clothing can also offer protection from UV rays, and the darker the colors the better. When buying clothing for children, it’s important to look for clothing made from sun-protective fabric that will help protect them.
4. Use Hats for Protection
Hats are good for covering the head. A good baseball cap will cover the scalp, ears, and face. But take no chance. Still use a good sunscreen to cover any areas that the cap doesn’t.
5. Get Plenty of Shade
No one can underestimate the importance of having access to a well-shaded area when participating in outdoor activities. Whether it’s a tree, a big umbrella, or some other shaded area, it will give solid protection from UV rays. Parents should also keep in mind that midday is the time when rays are the strongest.
6. Check Medicine
Your child’s skin could be more susceptible to the sun’s UV rays if they take prescription medication. Be sure to check prescription bottles for more information. If you are unsure, ask a pharmacist or the child’s doctor. If your child is sensitive to the sun’s rays, you may need to take additional precautions.
If your child is going to be out in the sun, make sure you take the proper precautions when dealing with exposure. Remember, UV rays can be dangerous and the consequences are not always immediate. Always apply a good deal of sunscreen regardless of how long your child will be in the sun. It doesn’t take long for UV rays to do damage. If your child begins to exhibit signs of overheating or excessive sun exposure, get them to a doctor as quickly as possible.