Minimizing Exposure to the Sun

There is no quick fix for the ozone layer. Once they get into the environment, ozone-depleting chemicals disintegrate very slowly, so they are likely to be with us for a long time. While governments around the world deal with the source of the problem, we should all take steps to avoid over-exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

We can put pressure on our government to deal with the source of the problem more swiftly. And, as consumers, we can reduce or eliminate our use of ozone depleting products like aerosols. This will send a loud and clear economic impact statement to the producers of such products.

These general guidelines will help you protect your family from the sun's harmful rays:

• Cover up when you are going to spend long periods in the sun. Wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, gloves and a brimmed hat or visor. Avoid see-through clothing when possible.
  
  
• Avoid sunbathing for the purpose of tanning, especially between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. when the sun's rays are strongest.
  
  
• Wear sunglasses that screen out ultraviolet radiation. Our eyes have no built-in defense against the sun, and damage to the eye from UV rays can lead to cataracts.
  
  
• Use lots of sunscreen lotion, and reapply it every two hours. Look for a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15.
  
  
• Don't think you are safe just because it's cloudy. The sun's harmful rays can get through fog, haze and light cloud cover.

Children and teenagers have thinner skin than adults, so they need extra protection if they are going to be out in the sun for a long time. Sunburn may increase the risk of skin cancer later in life, so it is best to get children used to wearing protective clothing and sunscreen lotion from the start.

At the very least, young children should wear a sun hat, T-shirt and shorts. When you put sunscreen on children, pay special attention to the parts that are most exposed, including their ears, face, neck, shoulders and back, knees and the tops of their feet. Don't use sunscreen on babies. Keep them in the shade instead.

It is important to protect against ultraviolet radiation all year round; not just in the summer. You can continue to enjoy outdoor activities, as long as you take steps to avoid sunburns and over-exposure to the sun's harmful rays.