As the summer continues to make its mark and the sun shines brighter and longer, it’s the perfect time to spread awareness about the importance of sun safety. Our community may be surrounded by picturesque landscapes, but it is crucial to protect ourselves from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation.

The sun provides us with warmth, light, and vital vitamin D. However, it’s essential to acknowledge that overexposure to its UV radiation can have adverse effects on our health. UV rays can damage our skin and eyes, leading to sunburn, premature aging, eye problems, and an increased risk of skin cancer. Regardless of the weather, UV rays can be harmful, so it’s beneficial to adopt sun safety practices to use every time we venture outdoors.

To safeguard ourselves, it’s important to consider a few key practices. First, put on protective clothing. When possible, wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers as much skin as possible. Opt for garments with a tight weave, offering better sun protection. Additionally, don’t forget to wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield your face, neck, and ears from the sun’s rays. Secondly, use sunscreen. Applying a broad-spectrum sunscreen with a Sun Protection Factor (SPF) of 30 or higher is vital. Make sure to apply it to all exposed areas of the skin, even on cloudy days. Reapplication is necessary every two hours or after swimming or sweating excessively. Lastly, slap on a pair of sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays. Protecting our eyes from harmful UV radiation is essential for maintaining long-term eye health. Be sure to look for sunglasses with a label indicating UV protection.

While enjoying Wyoming’s natural outdoor splendor, keep in the peak UV hours in mind (typically between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m.). Seek shade to reduce direct sun exposure, and planning outdoor activities in the early morning or late afternoon can also help you avoid the most intense sunlight. Summer is the perfect time to play outdoors and make the most of the beautiful weather. Stay active and enjoy various recreational pursuits. However, it’s important to balance your activities and take breaks to rest and hydrate. Dehydration can happen quickly under the sun, leading to fatigue, dizziness, and heat-related illnesses. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day, even if you don’t feel thirsty.

Children and individuals with fair skin are more susceptible to the harmful effects of UV radiation. Take extra precautions to protect their delicate skin by keeping them in the shade, dressing them in protective clothing, and applying sunscreen regularly. Remember, children under six months should be kept out of direct sunlight.

As we enjoy another glorious Wyoming summer, let’s make UV Safety Month a time to prioritize our well-being. By adopting simple sun safety practices, we can ensure a safe and enjoyable summer. The sun’s rays may be powerful, but with awareness and precautions, we can bask in its warmth while keeping our health intact. From all of us at Niobrara Community Hospital & Clinic, have a wonderful and sun-safe summer!