The sun has arrived in the Bailiwick's summer and while we all want to be enjoying it, the Health Promotion Unit is encouraging people to enjoy it safely.
The UVI is currently very high, a 7 or 8, and because there has been very little sun so far this year it is possible that people are tempted to take more risks.
Health Promotion Officer for Cancer Prevention, Di Mathews says "Enjoy the sun safely is the message. Put on some cool cover ups and take care of your skin with a sun cream which has a minimum SPF (Skin Protection Factor) of 15".
Being sun safe is particularly important in the Islands as we are seeking to reduce our incidence of skin cancer. Cancer Research UK states that skin cancer is almost entirely preventable by taking a few simple steps to look after ourselves in the sun. These are:
- Covering up with cool clothing and a hat.
- Finding shade between 11am and 3pm.
- Using Factor 15+ sun screen.
Cancer Research UK is running a competition for people aged 16 and over to find new ways of staying in the shade. The "Made in the Shade" competition offers a range of excellent prizes including Premier League football tickets or a studio recording session. It can be entered by visiting: http://www.madeintheshadeuk.com/.
Contact Information
If you would like posters or more information about sun safety:
Di Mathews
Health Promotion Unit
Tel: 01481 707 311
E-mail: dmathews@hssd.gov.gg
