SLIP! SLOP! SLAP! and WRAP! 

The American Cancer Society promotes this clever slogan that is easy to remember for the ultimate UV radiation protection. Slip on a shirt…slop on sunscreen…slap on a hat and wrap on sunglasses.

JULY IS NATIONAL UV SAFETY MONTH

This month is to remind people of all ages to protect their skin and eyes form the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) radiation. In the U.S., skin cancer is the most common form of cancer, with more than 4 million new cases diagnosed each year. UV radiation is the main cause of skin cancer and can also cause eye damage and vision loss, particularly in seniors. Today’s older American population face increased sun-related health problems because when they were growing up, there was little communication regarding the importance of proper UV protection. Today, there is widespread support for UV safety and this month especially aims to educate individuals on how to protect themselves from overexposure to the sun.

The following are recommended ways to protect the skin and eyes from damaging UV radiation:

Prior to enjoying the outdoors, apply a broad-spectrum, water-resistant sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher to all exposed skin.

Reapply sunscreen every two hours after swimming or sweating.

Wear protective clothing, as well as a broad-brimmed hat that covers the face, ears and neck.

Wear sunglasses that block 99 to 100 percent of UV rays and wrap around to protect eyes from every angle.

Limit time in the sun, especially during the hours of 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, when the sun’s rays are most intense.

Be cautious around reflectors of sunlight, such as water, snow, sand and cement.

AmeriStaff caregivers are mindful of UV protection for both skin and eyes. Our homecare and private duty nurses work with your loved ones to ensure that proper safety measures are taken prior to enjoying the outdoors.