Ottawa– Ottawa Public Health has issued an Ultraviolet (UV) Index Advisory for July 13, 2016. A UV index advisory is declared when a UV index of 10 or above is forecast. A very high or extreme UV index can quickly damage and burn unprotected skin. Extra precautions to protect skin from the sun’s rays should be taken.
Overexposure to UV radiation in childhood increases risk of skin cancer later in life. Babies less than one year of age should always be kept out of direct sunlight.
When the UV index is three or higher, skin protection is strongly recommended. Wearing these protective items will help protect your skin:
- A hat with a wide brim to protect the face, ears and neck
- Wrap-around sunglasses that protect 100% of UVA and UVB rays
- Tightly woven, loose fitting, full-length shirts and pants or skirts
Here are some other “Sun Safety” tips:
- Seek shade and limit the time in the sun between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Use a broad-spectrum sunscreen that blocks UVA and UVB rays. Sunscreen and lip balm should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 30 or higher. Sunscreen should be applied generously 20 minutes before going out in the sun and re-applied every two hours and after swimming, drying off or sweating.
- It is important to note that sunscreen cannot block all the sun’s rays. It must be used in combination with shade, proper clothing and hats.
- Take care when you are around white sand and other bright surfaces because they reflect UV and increase UV exposure.
- Place a canopy or umbrella over your baby’s stroller to provide protective shading.
Find out today’s UV Index value UV Forecasts and visit ottawa.ca/health for additional information on sun safety.
Residents who have questions about the impact of the UV index on their health can call the Ottawa Public Health Information Line at 613-580-6744 (TTY: 613-580-9656) to speak directly with a public health nurse or visit ottawa.ca/health. Connect with us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest and Tumblr.
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