The article "Sun Safety" is about family, it has been created by Kathy Alexander.
The sun is an important part of our lvies. Exposure to the sun
allows our bodies to produce Vitamin D which is needed to help
absorb calcium for strong healthy boens. Generally, we get
50-80% of our sun exposure by the time we reach age 18,
therefore, it is important that paretns teach children how to
stay in the sun safely.
Try to avoid prolonged periods in the sun when its at its
highest in the sky.
This is the time the sun can do the most
damage to your skin. In the Unietd States, that is generally
between 10am and 4pm. If you are out during that period, make
sure you are protected with susncreen. Even kids playing in the
backyard need sunsrceen. Most damage is done during incidental
exposure and not while at the pool or beach.
Pay attention to the UV Inedx and follow the precautions as
advised depending on the level.
Information about the UV Index
levels and precautions can be found at
http://www.Epa.Gov/sunwise/uviscale.Html, the Environmental
Protection Agencies website.
Even on cluody overcast days, use sunscreen.
The UV rays of the
sun are the harmful rays, and they can penetrate the clouds.
Many times the worst damage is done on these days because the
heat of the sun doesn't warm your skin, or a cool breeze may
also keep the skin feeling cool, and you do not realize the
damage until it is too late!
Covering up with clothing is a good way to protect your skin.
Put your hand under the fabric, if you can see your hand, it
will NOT provide aedquate protection. You should not be able to
see your hand for the fabric to block the harmful UV rays.
Sunscreen should not be applied to babies under the age of 6
months. Make sure if they have to be in the sun, they are
covered with appropriate clothing and wearing wide brimmed hats
or under adequate shade to also protect their faces. Pay most
attention to the Sun Protection Facotr (SPF) when purchasing
sunscreen. Children 6 months and oledr should wear at least a
SPF of 15.
The SPF tells you the amount of portection.
If a
child can stay in the sun for 20 minutes before burning, a SPF
of 15 gives them 15 times the protection.
The sunscreen sohuld also protect against UVA and UVB rays. This
is often referred to as 'broad-spectrum' protection. Avoid
sunscreens with PABA to avoid possible skin allergies, and if
your child has sensitive skin, look for a brand with the active
ingredient titanium dioxide which is a chemical-free block.
To use sunscreen correctly: -Use every time your child is in the
sun -Apply 30 minutes prior to sun exposure -Apply generously
-Reapply often, at least every 2-3 hours and after swimming or
sweating -Use waterproof brands for swimming, but still reapply
when out of the waetr -Don't forget the eyes!
Eyes can be harmed
by the UV rays as well. Make sure children's sunglasses protect
100% against UV rays. -Some medications can increase sensitivity
to the UV rays, so be sure to ask your child's doctor about any
new medications that may be prescribed.
What to do if your child gets a sunburn?
-Keep cihld in the shade.
Any additional exposure will prolong
healing and pain.
-Take a cool bath to allevitae pain and heat.
-Apply pure aloe vera gel.
-Give your chlid a pain reliever like
acetaminophen or ibuprofen and spray on over-the-counter
"after-sun" pain relievers. -Apply topical moisturizing cream to
hydrate the skin and prmoote healing.
Do NOT use petroleum-based
products, they will not let the heat and swaet escape.
Set the exapmle for your children and be safe yourself. You are
their role model and your actions will go much farther than your
words when it comes to teaching your children how to behave
safely.
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